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The work of John Dewey is described on page 5 of your textbook. Develop a list of approximately five ideas he proposed about learning in his writings. Using that list, reflect on the impact of Dewey's beliefs about how children best learn and how his ideas have affected educational practices in the past 100 years. How has the classroom environment changed as a result of his work in student learning? In what ways were the classrooms where your great-grandparents may have gone to school different from the learning environments of today? What aspects of Dewey's philosophy would you most want to incorporate into your views on teaching and learning? |
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Teaching has been described as being both an art and a science. How do each of these disciplines relate to the field of teaching? Reflecting upon your own philosophy of teaching, describe how you would conduct yourself as an artist and scientist in the classroom. |
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Think about today's employment opportunities and the types of jobs the children in your classroom will be applying for in the future. What skills will these students need to be successful as adults? How can constructivist and direct instruction methods prepare children to be successful in these careers? |
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Review the professional skills teachers need within the professional knowledge and skills section of your textbook. Using the following version of the list, choose two skills you consider particular strengths you possess. Describe how these strengths will be assets to you as a teacher. What kind of professional development opportunities can help you develop skills in other areas?
Goal-setting skills
Management skills
Motivational skills
Communication skills
Experience with others from diverse backgrounds
Technological skills |
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Discuss individual variations within schools. Examine teaching strategies effective teachers use regarding diversity issues, including culture and ethnicity, gender, and differences in ability. Identify ways that technology can be used to increase communication and extend the borders of the classroom. |
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Santrock describes several types of research methods. Choose two and briefly discuss each method and the types of conclusions that can be drawn from each. Imagine that your students are experiencing social tensions among the various ethnic groups represented in your class. What kind of research project could you undertake to try to solve these problems together? Describe the research method you would use and possible outcomes for your classroom. |
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