Reflection on Presentations

I would like to reflect on the presentations that have been given in class so far. Overall, I think everyone did a good job and had interesting lessons. I believe when preparing lessons, especially for the younger grades, it is important to have some sort of visual aid available for them to accompany any lectures or seatwork to keep their attention on the work at hand. They can be easily distracted, so it would be helpful to have something handy for them to view or study while doing their work. With the behaviors given out by Dr. Luongo, it was seen how easily the class could get out of hand if not properly managed. Behavioral problems will be seen in every classroom at somepoint in our teaching careers. So, being introduced to them, whether in a daycare setting, afterschool program, tutoring groups, or during our lesson presentations, will assist in our preparations for becoming teachers. I believe it is important for us to know that we will soon be responsible for a large group of children, ranging from all ages, who will depend on us for a variety of things, not only their educational development. We are going to have to be part-time care-givers, nurses, custodians, advisors, etc. A teacher is not just a teacher. He/she has a very important job, one which we have to be sure is right for us because of the tremendous responsibility involved in such a profession. With this responsibility, though, comes great rewards and personal satisfaction, knowing you are making a difference in the lives of countless children everyday. So, although it is not an easy job, if you are committed to it, and love what you do, I believe you will be fine. Personally, I have enjoyed all of my education classes and feel they have each helped me in some way towards understanding the field of education in more depth. On the contrast, I have met others who have taken education classes and discovered teaching is just not right for them. That is why we need to practice teaching and be exposed to a variety of aspects in this field, such as special education, so we can be educated on these subjects and hopefully, find our niche. We will experience good and bad days when teaching, which is like any other profession. The important thing to remember is why we are there and to not get discouraged along the way. Everything we experience, positive or negative, is just a part of our journey to get where we need to be.