My expectation of this class is to learn more hands on activities to teach social studies. History in high school was my least favorite class and I just realized after our last EDUC 308 class that it was because of the way my teacher taught it. My high school teacher only made use of PowerPoints and worksheets about the previous nights readings about names, dates, and places. We never had the opportunity to do an activity similar to the one done in our EDUC 308 class with the picture. Even though the history being taught is different between elementary and high school, high school teachers should still make use of primary sources like the picture or different creative activities that teach the history curriculum.
My expectation for my teachers is to have them continue to impart their advice and wisdom from their past years of teaching onto us. I feel as though education is a career where you learn something new everyday and I would love for my teachers to share some of the important lessons they have learned.
The expectation I have for myself is to gain more experience leading towards becoming an elementary teacher. Through past education classes, I have been able to visit different public schools in Richmond and talk to different students. Each of these experiences, students, and teachers have taught me different lessons that are useful for my education career. I feel as though no experience in visiting schools, meeting new teachers, or completing educational projects will be the same, which is why I want to continue to do so to learn more.
I’m always saddened when I hear about bad experiences students have in classes, no matter the subject. Every subject could become a student’s favorite, or at least one they enjoy, if it’s taught in an engaging manner. I hope everyone who has had poor experiences in social studies leaves this class feeling that they can teach in a way that will excite kids and have them wanting to know more.
Lynne and I have lots of stories to share, and even more strategies to model. I know you’ll come away with a lot to think about.
I’m glad to hear you are learning from your visits to schools and that you want to continue them.
Hi Sophia,
All I can think about is “Death by PowerPoint.” I am sorry your earlier experience with history instruction has been mundane! I agree that even high school teachers can engage content in the way we did last week with the image! This semester you will learn many strategies for making history come alive whether you teach kindergarten or 12th grade! ( I know this course is only K-6…but active learning strategies can be adapted for each grade level!)
I look forward to being your instructor and empowering you to think about how to make learning come alive in your social studies class!
See you tomorrow, Lynne