Why I Learn
Upon completion of my undergraduate career I was oblivious to what my future held as far as continuing my education. I knew I wanted to pursue a graduate degree; but with such an overwhelming amount of programs and schools, I was lost. I began to research different programs in the College of Education at Michigan State University because I was already familiar with the school. Through my research, I learned of the Masters of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum Program (MATC) and immediately discovered that this was the program for me. I found this program particularly interesting because their goals are virtually identical to skills I would like to master throughout my career. Additionally, another aspect I admired about the MATC program is that it caters to teachers at different periods of their career. No matter if the teacher is entering their first year, has taught for many years or is considering teaching abroad, this program offers varying support at each level. As a soon to be first year teacher, I found this to be very reassuring.
My main goal as an educator is to help students reach their full academic potential. Often times students approach a subject with a defeated attitude based off past experiences, ruling themselves out before taking the time to try. I understand that every student is not and will not be on the same level academically; however, every student has the opportunity to reach their own level of success. Keeping in line with Standard 1 of the MATC Program that reads, “Understanding and commitment to students and their diversity,” I want to be able to meet students where they are and then push them a little further. Because each student enters the classroom with a unique past, whether it is their education, family background, social economic status, culture, or ability, it is unrealistic to assume that each student can reach the same goal. Keeping this in mind I plan to develop differentiated lessons, activities, quizzes and test that will give all students a chance to succeed.
During my fifth-year internship, the idea that each student learns differently became more than just an idea as the months passed. At first, I struggled with creating lessons that met the needs of my students, but the task became easier with the help of my mentor and practice in the classroom. Though I have learned a lot through my internship, I know that there is much more to be learned. As a student in the Masters of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum Program, I plan to broaden my understanding of what it means to create a curriculum for diverse learners. I will do this by reflecting on my own practices and philosophies, as well as that of others; strengthening weak areas in my practice; and pursuing every opportunity available to enhance my skills in teaching. I firmly believe that acceptance into this program will put me on the right track towards reaching both my educational and career goals.
My main goal as an educator is to help students reach their full academic potential. Often times students approach a subject with a defeated attitude based off past experiences, ruling themselves out before taking the time to try. I understand that every student is not and will not be on the same level academically; however, every student has the opportunity to reach their own level of success. Keeping in line with Standard 1 of the MATC Program that reads, “Understanding and commitment to students and their diversity,” I want to be able to meet students where they are and then push them a little further. Because each student enters the classroom with a unique past, whether it is their education, family background, social economic status, culture, or ability, it is unrealistic to assume that each student can reach the same goal. Keeping this in mind I plan to develop differentiated lessons, activities, quizzes and test that will give all students a chance to succeed.
During my fifth-year internship, the idea that each student learns differently became more than just an idea as the months passed. At first, I struggled with creating lessons that met the needs of my students, but the task became easier with the help of my mentor and practice in the classroom. Though I have learned a lot through my internship, I know that there is much more to be learned. As a student in the Masters of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum Program, I plan to broaden my understanding of what it means to create a curriculum for diverse learners. I will do this by reflecting on my own practices and philosophies, as well as that of others; strengthening weak areas in my practice; and pursuing every opportunity available to enhance my skills in teaching. I firmly believe that acceptance into this program will put me on the right track towards reaching both my educational and career goals.