Task 4a, Developing Lines of Professional Enquiry
I found this task very fulfilling, particularly writing about my own experiences in relation to my practise. The questions I created were very close to my heart. I was able to take what I had learnt into my teaching, as I felt that by doing this task I had become more compassionate and aware of all the situations I might not have known that my students might have been going through.
Task 4b, Special Interest Group
I discovered from this task that teachers need to be aware that students may want to talk about their experiences/ issues with others who have gone through similar situations. I let my students know, if there is anything related to their work that they are unsure of, unsettled about, my door is always open for those who wish to talk. If adolescents know there is someone who is willing to listen and happy to help, that will allow them to feel more comfortable, safe and sure of themselves if they know help is available to them.
Task 4c, Developing Questions
I felt though I could relate to each person I interviewed in some way. The first was a student I trained with in college, the second was my employer and the third was a student of mine. In conclusion, we can all relate to each other on some level in this profession which is what makes us so open to talking about our experiences.
Task 4d, Award Title
I have struggled with this task, as at first I was being too specific, then my second attempt was too varied. The task for me was being able to find the balance between the two.
Task 5a, Regulations and Codes of Practise
Writing my chosen ethics down reminded me of what each one means to me personally in my line of work. I realised that what makes me a successful teacher is that my personal and professional ethics compliment each other. I have strong morals and principles, which are what make my professional decisions so grounded and respected by others.
Task 5b, Codes of Practise
It was this task that helped me realise that if I were to write a list of regulations to be published professionally for my classes, I would need to concentrate on my wording and grammar. Sometimes I know what I want to say, but putting it into words can sometimes be challenging. From this, I found that approaching others for assistance on this topic is something I should be more open minded to.
Task 5c, Professional Ethics
During this task I came across a case study in my reading about a dance class. After reading about the way in which this class was taught, although I did not agree with it, it inspired me. Whenever I come across a situation like this, it only inspires me to never become like that, and therefore gives me that drive to always be better at my job.
Task 6a, Pilot Survey
LINK: Pilot Survey http://jessicalouisehunt.blogspot.com/2011/04/pilot-survey.html
The results I received from my pilot survey helped me gain a better understanding to the insights of others on my chosen topic, rather than judging them on my own experiences. After viewing the responses I felt I had progressed personally, I was really listening to what these people had to say, and I was able to put my own thoughts aside.
Task 6b, Critical Reflections
LINK: Thoughts on my Pilot Survey http://jessicalouisehunt.blogspot.com/2011/04/thoughts-on-my-pilot-survey.html
Thoughts on my Focus Group http://jessicalouisehunt.blogspot.com/2011/04/thoughts-on-my-focus-group.html
From the start of this course we have been encouraged to write on other peoples blogs, I believe this particular module encouraged everyone to pursue with this idea. Just as I needed others to complete my Survey and assist me with my Focus Group, I need to reciprocate with others. I felt I had more opportunity to do that this module by completing surveys and commenting on peoples SIG Groups.
Task 6c, Reviews of Literature
Reviewing these articles took me out of my own bubble in a sense. I am interviewing and conducting a workshop with chosen people. After discovering these articles, I had suddenly become more aware that there are so many extraordinary people all over the world in this industry, who each have something to offer.
Task 6d, Delicious Page
I believe organisation is one of the most important tools in my profession. I use a diary to keep track of my schedule, a filing system for all my work, but I had never used an online tool besides my blog to organise my web pages. Although I have all my important web pages saved to “Favourites”, it takes time to find any specifics. By creating my “Delicious” page, I have now discovered a new tool for my organisational skills.
