Theoretical Reflection Ppt
- 1. Theoretical Reflection Melissa Carabin
- 2. Understanding Who and What I Teach I teach nine wonderful elementary special needs students who range in age from third grade to fifth grade. Some of these students are socially around four years old. Others although they are socially at the right age are learning approximately three grades lower. I am responsible for teaching them reading, writing and math and then work with the regular ed staff regarding science and social studies.
- 3. Constructivism Theory Promotes using curricula customized to the students prior knowledge – also emphasizes hands-on problem solving. Focuses on making connections between facts and fostering new understanding in students. Assessment becomes part of the learning process so that students play a larger role in judging their own progress. Therefore, I can tailor my teaching strategies to student responses and encourage them to analyze, interpret and predict information. We use a lot of dialogue and work on open-ended questioning.
- 4. Brain-based Learning Based on the structure and function of the brain. As long as the brain is allowed to do what it needs to do, it will. Learning involves focused attention and peripheral perception. Learning involves conscious and unconscious processes. Learning engages the whole physiology. Learning is enhanced by challenges and inhibited by threats. EACH BRAIN IS UNIQUE! Therefore, I am able to design my students learning around their interests and make their learning contextual.
- 5. Observational Learning The observer (student) will imitate the model’s (teacher/peer) behavior if the model possesses talent, intelligence, power. There is a difference between acquiring and producing. Acquiring can be done without producing. Learn by observation – attention and retention account for acquisition or learning of behavior. Production and motivation control the performance. Therefore, my students must see me and their peers modeling the behavior and knowledge that I want them to have and that the State of Texas wants them to have.