Self-Reflection on Teaching Abilities

My teaching ability is honest based on challenges.  This year I went to a more high risk school and I quickly had to adjust my instructional practices.  I only needed to make minor adjustment for my Physics class.  However, I haven't taught Biology in years and the modifications were harder for several reasons:  1) the entire administrative team was new, and was not prepared or honest about the reality of the skill deficient of most 9th and 10th grade students. 2) I really didn't understand the depth of the deficiencies but I was honest about them. 3)  The data we were given was not up to date, not complete and not in one general location.  4)  The SIS was very antiquated and did not provide data.  I called it data and now I know the new word is analytics.

In essence, this year has affirmed that my strengths as an instructor is in teaching 11th and 12th grade students or more mature 10th graders.

My professional growth plan is fluid and based on societal trends and changes in the family dynamics to which learning adapts - this being  a constant area of concern that warrants development.  Because I do work with parents on educational issues, I am constantly acquiring knew information and developing my skills.  My learning curve tends to be short because I have to make quick decision about what we are able to do as an organization and what requires outside assistance.  

This training was very helpful. I have learned more about differentiation, which I always considered an area of strengths.

More importantly, it was self motivating; once I started and saw the potential in it, I was hooked. I tried to complete the lessons with fidelity.  It was not a huge jump to get in the virtual class mind-set because I use a blended learning environment setting.

My artifacts that I offer at this time is the ones that I have submitted, which shows a level of knowledge, skills and abilities generated from this course.

I am honor by the opportunity to learn.  It has been very beneficial.

Sincerely,
Phyllis Austin