Module 4 its time for more!

Chapter 9 talks about complex cognitive processes and goes into learning strategies which we used making the concept maps. There were other strategies talked about in the chapter and it is important to hit all areas of learning to be an effective teacher. A part that was interesting was the critical thinking and augmentation. The section talks about mentorship which supports critical thinking. On page 365 the author says, “one-to-one mentoring for students from teacher, coaches, or other adults also supports the development of critical thinking.” I feel that a big part of me wanting to be a teacher is to make a difference or guide someone who does not have the support at home. I look back at my life and even though I had both parents I feel if I had additional support, I would have excelled in sports more. Giving someone support can change their outlook on things and can help them succeed in an area they may have given up on.

Chapter 10 discusses constructivism and designing learning environments. A part that I found interesting was the designing learning environments in a digital world. We were introduced to technology in education in a previous class and it was interesting to see some of the applications used. I initially thought of smart boards, computers, and iPads before the class started but we were taught how to use Twitter in our classrooms which I never would have thought made a connection. An idea I really loved was the flipped classroom. Page 418 “the flipped classroom is a good example of constructivist teaching. Teachers are no longer just providers of information.” This concept made so much sense to me and I wished they had used it when I was a child. Being able to learn at home and then have your questions answered when you come to class is great. It takes discipline from the students but with the right encouragement, all students can grasp this concept.

Social Cognitive Views of Learning and Motivation was the name of chapter 11. A part I liked about the chapter was the learning by observing others. I like to learn this way because it helps when someone demonstrates what they are talking about instead of just talking. In Physical Education learning by observing others is probably going to be the way the students will learn. Another part I liked was the teachers’ sense of efficacy. Page 438 “when teachers have a higher sense of efficacy, they teach more effectively and their students learn more, and when students learn more, teacher self-efficacy grows.” I believe that most teachers are going to feel as though they can reach even the most difficult students, otherwise, they would not be good teachers. We all have an idea in our heads on how we are going to teach and what we are going to do different but sticking with it and changing what does not work is going to be the key.