New Insights and Their Implications

From the few class meetings we have had, I have learned a lot. From my instructor I am learned more about the constructivist approach, which I did not know very much about. I have also learned about the TIMMS study. I think this did a great job of opening my eyes and realizing how to change some teaching habits that may be to familiar. One such habit is that of trying to teach too many different things. I as a teacher need to spend more time on one topic until it is fully understood. I also have learned about the the National and State standards, from both the text and the instructor. These are extremely important to understand because of their high importance in the classroom and because of NCLB. I have also learned about how to use SENTEO quizzes in the classroom. This tool and technology seems like a great thing to use in the classroom regarding not only Math, but other content areas. I also loved the Virtual Manipulatives. These are great for lots of activities and do a great job of involving the students and using a visual to teach the lesson for students.

One of the main things we have been focusing on in class is regarding how to incorporate the standards and use them in an activity. I think this is important because there are certain things that need to be taught and certain activities students are going to enjoy. It is important for activities to be engaging and fun, yet still possess the necessary information that is taught to students. This class has taught me, already, lots of things regarding teaching practices. I think that if I continue to use the standards, think creatively, and be passionate about my teaching, that I could create a very conducive environment to learn in.