Professional Library- Add Your Voice

 Add Your Voice 

The video below highlights my passion for teaching, the various roles of a teacher in today's learning environment and how the NBPTS Five Core Propositions- Commitment, Subject Knowledge, Responsibility, Reflection and Professional Learning Communities align with my passion for teaching and my view of the role of the teacher today. In addition, it also focuses on how the RWRCOEL Professional Disposition that comprises of Professional Conduct, Professional Qualities, Communication and Collaboration reflect in my passion for teaching and my view of the role of the teacher in today’s learning environment. 

Transcript

Teaching is my passion because watching people grow makes me happy. When I see kids try to do their best, it makes me extremely content. If I can help them in any way, I want to be able to do so. Teaching allows me to "develop hearts and minds" (Alenezi,2014,para.3) . It has the power to redefine the life of children. 

The dynamics of teaching have changed and it keeps constantly changing. In this world of ever-evolving technology and inventions, teachers have to familiarize themselves with new findings and tools. Technology changing the roles of teachers is a common mention by all the educators in the video: Voices from the field: The role of the teacher. One of the roles of  teachers is to stay up to date with technology so they can properly implement new technology and digital tools in their classroom. The use of technology in the classroom changes the role of the teacher from a traditional knowledge provider into a facilitator guiding the students’ learning and engaging in joint critical thinking and problem solving. In today’s learning environment, the work of the teachers has also changed to a multi-faceted role. Teachers are expected to be dynamic in many fields. According to Melinda Bubp from Walden University, LLC (2019), teachers wear many hats. The role of a teacher in today’s learning environment is to not only teach but to also build a connection with each student as an individual in order to further understand his or her learning style, social and cultural background, abilities and interests.

The Five Core Propositions provide an excellent model for integration of the key professional dispositions which aligns with my passion for teaching and my view of the role of the teacher today. I believe that teaching and commitment are often synonymous. An effective educator needs to be committed not only to their students but also to their teaching profession as a whole. This further accentuates on the importance of professional conduct and professional qualities (NBPTS, n.d) (Walden University,2016).

Teachers take the responsibility of  managing and monitoring student learning through various techniques. Teachers use communication to respect the ideas and feelings of others and convey discussions in multiple ways. Thinking about practice and learning from our experience is an important part of being an educator. I think it is integral to rethink our approach and find new ways to improve and implement the lesson. This emphasizes the importance of professional development. Reflection could also be conducted by actively taking part in  professional learning communities. This allows for collaboration among other educators to engage in professional development and growth (NBPTS, n.d) (Walden University,2016). Overall, these principles and dispositions are created to help teachers meet the challenges of today’s learning environment.

Professional Thought- "Be the change you want to see in the world."

 Social Change 

Social changes have an extensive impact on the education system. Changes in society and the rapid technological development have brought about transformation in the educational system. We are looking at a more technology-integrated classroom where interactive whiteboards, shared online calendars, gamified learning applications and various digital tools have transformed classrooms making them more interactive, student-centered and customized to students’ learning (Walden University,2015). This has caused the role and responsibilities of teachers to significantly change too, it has become greater. With the education space heading towards a student-centered classroom, the role of an educator has turned into a facilitator who sparks the idea of social change amongst the students. Since education plays an important role in the development and progress of an individual, it becomes important for educators to use quality education as an integral factor and driving force to social progress. 

Music Appreciation Night-Christmas themed event. 

According to Medeiros (2018), the classroom is the starting point of social change. It is the role of teachers to widen the boundaries of a classroom and not only focus on curriculum and course books. Curriculum and course books can sometimes prevent teachers from discussing important topics in class. As such, the aim of educators is to design a curriculum that will allow students to use different skills that will help them to be a part of their community and make interventions that contribute to the well-being of their community. According to Walden University (2017), ‘Strengthening the Institution's Curricular Impact’ by offering relevant and emerging educational curricula can enhance knowledge and build skills that support the efforts of the students to be more effective agents of social change. As an educator, this is one of my plans to advocate for positive social change. 

Other ways that I plan on implementing a positive social change is by encouraging active participation among students, prepare students that change is inevitable and to believe in their own values and core beliefs to bring about positive change, guide students to know how to think instead of what to think and be a part of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Active learning and participation is the core of a student centered learning environment. This includes students asking questions, students teaching each other, open-ended and group based assignments that highlight critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity. It is important to create a learning environment where students offer solutions and practice problem-solving skills. This will allow students to keep up with the changes that take place and to have some power to make decisions in regards to those changes. They need to understand that it is okay to make mistakes but it is important to learn and reflect from those mistakes as it helps in making decisions in future and other circumstances. Incorporating poems, stories and even sharing life experiences allow students to think. It gives students a platform to gain perceptions based on their understanding of the situation. Once a certain foundation is formed, the students are able to navigate through their mind and form ideas and opinions. Being a part of professional learning communities would be a great way to help me interact with other educators to share ideas, experiences, failures and successes. Group discussions allow for more minds and hearts to come together and discuss ways to bring about positive social change. 

Voices of the Future- An interschool event that allows students to share their thoughts and ideas for a growth oriented future. 

If we can practice these steps consistently in the classroom, it will help shape a strong and impactful societal force. As educators try change and shape lives in classrooms, we can only be hopeful of a better, bright and balanced society ahead.

Professional Thought- Teacher Burnout

 Teacher Burnout 

Teacher and Staff Retreat

One of the challenges for teachers in today’s educational environment is teacher burnout. According to Turner and Garvis (2023), teacher burnout is caused by a prolonged response to intense emotional and interpersonal job stressors. Many teachers are experiencing high work pressure and excessive workloads including communicating with parents, planning for lessons, meetings, corrections, professional developments and extra-curricular activities that leads to impaired health and exhaustion resulting in severe consequences such as reduced job satisfaction, reduced teaching quality and higher intention to leave the profession. In today’s learning environment, teachers wear many hats and take on a number of roles. Teachers don’t only teach but they also contribute in shaping a child’s personality and guide their attitude towards learning. Most of the days I go from Ms. Malika to Nurse Malika to Mediator Malika to sometimes even Comedian Malika. Teaching is a profession which is a combination of many other professions.

 

Setting boundaries and maintaining a healthy work- life balance whilst making some time for rest and relaxation can help improve teachers’ mental health and thus combat teacher burnout. In addition, according to Sonnemann and Joiner (2022), one of the ways to help teachers reduce certain tasks is by finding ways other school staff can take on non-teaching-work. A plan should be implemented to find better ways to use the wider school workforce, including support and specialist staff to help teachers focus on effective lesson planning and teaching. 

With the many roles teachers take on, it is highly effective to have professional dispositions and propositions we can look into. These propositions and dispositions give teachers an outline that center around conduct, commitment to lifelong learning, knowledge of subject areas, managing student learning, collaboration  and advocacy for students and the profession (NBPTS, n.d) (Walden University,2016). These propositions and dispositions are a great way to shape effective teachers who can instill belief in their students. How many students today would believe in the power of belief? Belief in themselves? Belief to create a better world for themselves? Belief to power through challenges?  It is important for teachers to have that belief for themselves too. The belief that they are doing their best, not be too hard on themselves and that they should take care of their mental and physical health. 

Professional Thought- A Cooperative Discipline

 A Cooperative Discipline 

According to Freiberg and Stein (1999), the educational climate is the heart and soul of the school. A school’s educational climate is a reflection of goals, learning and teaching practices, values and the structure of an organization. Educational climate also refers to shared beliefs, values, and attitudes that drive the interaction between students, teachers, principals, parents and administrators in schools. When the educational climate is positive, it ensures a more integrated learning environment which allows a productive and contributive learning experience. There have been great changes in my school in improving our educational climate as we try to accommodate 21st century learning and teaching skills. There have been improvements in personal growth/development as an educator and dimensions of physical environment which also contributes to a positive school climate in which students can learn. According to Maxwell (2016), a well- designed and well maintained school building communicates to the students, parents, teachers and staff that they are valued and that their activities are important. 

Group Picture with the Grade 2 students before Mid-term break.

However, in spite of the great changes that have come our way, there still seems to be concerns with rigid curriculum implementation that calls for a change in quality educational management in my school setting. The tight scheduling with curriculum implementation doesn’t allow the spontaneity and joy in being able to get to know the students or for students to have more fun interactions with each other (Nieto, 2014). Since everything is so structured and standards-based, it does get a little challenging to get to know the students on a personal level. (Walden University, LLC. 2019f). As an educator, I want to be able to make time to really know the students in my classroom as I believe it can make me a more effective and impactful teacher. It is important to dig a bit deeper and find out about students' learning interests and strengths. Getting to know who our students are as individuals can help provide an inclusive classroom environment which will also keep students highly engaged in learning and provide a safe and accepting space when navigating challenging times that will encourage them to seek support when needed.  According to Melinda Bubp from Walden University, LLC (2019), the role of a teacher in today’s learning environment is to not only teach but to also build a connection with each student in order to further understand his or her learning style, social and cultural background, abilities and interests.

Knowing whether a student prefers to draw, watch a movie, read a book or be outdoors can help teachers build meaningful relationships with them. Chatting with students based on their interests can build trust and show students that their teachers are genuinely interested in their lives outside of the classroom. Some students may feel too shy to speak up in classroom discussions or deliver presentations. Instead, they may feel more comfortable with one-on-one conversations or written reflections. Allowing for these differences by using a variety of teaching strategies can help all students develop their confidence in various areas. By giving students the opportunity to explore various areas and learning strategies, students will engage more with the learning process. 

A handwritten note from one of my Grade 2 students. 

Curriculum implementation and Curriculum alignment is important. However, striking a balance between structured curriculum and freedom is more so important. Understanding the beliefs and concerns of teachers in striking this balance can provide an understanding whether the curriculum implementation will meet success or failure. According to Chapman (2020), administrators and teachers need to collaborate and engage in ‘shared sense-making’. This will help to assess and address learners’ needs and allow administrators to understand the essential contribution this aspect of student learning will contribute to learner’s success. 

Group picture of Primary School, Middle School and High School Teachers. 

Head for the stars- Vision & Mission

 My Professional Vision and Mission

Primary Teachers group picture post Grade 6 Graduation Ceremony.

Vision: My vision is to assume a leadership role and consistently be a reflective practitioner who uses evidence to evaluate her practice. The vision is to also create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, encourage positive social interaction, use a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understanding of content areas, to build skills to access and appropriately apply information.

Mission: Based on my Vision, I will

     ·         Engage in Lifelong Learning through Reflection and Critical Inquiry. One of my SMART Goals is to reflect on my teaching performance and delivery of instruction using student surveys and a written reflection of the results of the survey. This will help me determine the effectiveness of my teaching and make adjustments accordingly.
·         Pursue a Master’s Degree that will allow me to engage in scholarly and practical learning. It will allow me to level up my existing knowledge, build credibility and learn new skills.
·         Prepare holistic education by developing an instructional model, building assessment in the school, implementing personalized strategies, practicing competency based education and self-directed learning practices. According to Walden University (2017), relevant and emerging educational curricula can enhance knowledge and build skills that support the efforts of the students to be more effective agents of social change.
·         Build good character by being their role model, share moral experiences, help them practice their learning and communicating clearly and effectively.

"Miles to go before I sleep"- Background & Experiences

  My Professional Growth Plan

I dreamt of writing a book when I was in primary grade. I wanted to emulate and create a fantasy and mesmerizing world like Harry Potter. The ambition of becoming a journalist captured my interest in high school. I enrolled in Mass Communications in college and guess what I am now? A Primary Vice Principal and English teacher. Much of me becoming a teacher was accidental. I did not aspire to be a teacher. I think like most people I too assumed that being a teacher is an “easy” job and isn’t a challenging or growth oriented profession. During my first year as a teacher, I realized that teachers are not made but are born. Becoming a teacher is not measured by whether one has majored in a certain field or has had aspirations of being a teacher since day one. What makes all of us teachers is the same passion and love we feel for the students when we step inside a classroom. The mission to mold kids and allow them to give their best. This continues to be my motivation even after being in the education space for nine years now. After completing my first year as an educator, I stayed rooted to my passion for teaching. I realized that it was my true calling as I cherished my interactions with the kids and felt like I was making a positive impact in their lives.

With time my career coincidentally evolved. Throughout the journey thus far, I have learnt a great deal about effective teaching from things that worked and didn’t work in my classroom. In addition, partnership with my colleagues and teacher friends who seek professional growth and have high aspirations for themselves as educators have contributed greatly to being an effective teacher. My growing commitment to the education space comes from the fact that I want to be a ‘change maker’ in the education space. One way of doing this is by imparting good values as we build lifetime learners. As educators it is essential to bring about social change by leading kids to think critically and look for solutions to problems in ways that require compassion and imagination rather than force and anger (Walden University, 2017). As I work with kids on these things, I have started practicing these skills too. I have become better at thinking critically and looking for compassionate and imaginative solutions (Nieto, 2014). 

Last day of school with my Grade 2 students

To pursue my passion to teach, I must develop my passion and enrolling in the MSED program will help me with this. According to Walden University (2016), it is essential to engage in Professional Development/Growth. As an educator, I started to realize that I had to engage in scholarly continuous learning and interaction with educators from other parts of the world to be able to level up existing knowledge, build credibility and learn new skills. So far, it has been such a wonderful experience and with just six weeks into the program, I believe that I have gained a scholarly approach to teaching, learnt from the experiences and stories of other educators. I believe that pursuing a MSED program has been one of the best decisions of my life and I have my family to thank for this as they have been the source of inspiration for me to enroll and finally pursue a MSED program. My family planted the seed of thought into my mind and then the teacher in me thought about how this could possibly be a good idea  to develop myself as an educator and eventually discover new ways to improve my teaching skills and keep up with the changes and advances in the education space. In the future, I see myself as a school leader who is positively impacting student learning and a MSED program is my first step towards that vision. As a school leader, I hope to develop an instructional model, build assessment in the school, implement personalized strategies, practice competency based education and self-directed learning practices. All these changes in the learning environment can be made if I start to equip myself with the necessary skills and knowledge. 

Music Appreciation Night 

According to Castro et al. (2022), an education professional’s identity is formed through  sociocultural  practical experiences. I agree with this as I believe that our professional identity as educators  is partly formed by our sociocultural experiences. It starts with our own relationship with education and our teachers as children. When I reflect on my favorite teachers from school, I can associate them as professionals. They were fun, made lessons interactive and adjusted lessons when needed. They stayed calm in stressful situations and most importantly they were always there for their students’, engaging in learning alongside so they could expand their knowledge. My definition of an education professional stems from these experiences. The artifact below is a memento that I received last year during Graduation. It was awarded to me based on the votes of the students. The fact that I was able to forge a deep and respectful relationship with the students made me feel great. It made me realize that the essence of teaching is being a good listener, showing up for your students and a balance of freedom and structured academic disciplines.

Graduation Memento