As an aspiring high school English teacher, I think the vast majority of this chapter applies to teaching. The importance of a connected learning community is extremely evident after reading this chapter. Benefits of a bounded community in teaching include a widespread and creative curriculum, access to more materials, being able to form groups, as well as building a community. Professional learning communities also apply directly to the field of education. Hopefully, I will work in a school building that wants to see improvement among their students in terms of intelligence, but also leadership. As the text states, “Participating in a professional learning community is an important step in becoming a connected educator” (Nussbaum-Beach & Ritter Hall 30).
Diversity is extremely important to maintain in schools. It is imperative that all students feel welcome and appreciated within their classrooms. Students should never feel isolated or unwanted. The most successful classrooms are the ones with the most diversity. Using a common language is also very important in the classroom. The text describes the importance of using a “common language” when writing about learning in open spaces, but this can also be applied to a standard classroom. It’s important to know your audience and use words that pretty much everyone will understand.
When teachers collaborate with one another, they can meet all of their goals and surpass their own expectations. The connected teacher network model is proof of that. With teachers having more access to technology, they are able to come together, collaborate, share, and help one another using websites, blogs, or even social media. Incorporating technology in the classroom allows for more opportunities and outreach. The connected learning model works for student achievement, personal growth as a teacher, and systemic improvement for an entire building.
"The most successful classrooms are the ones with the most diversity. " This is my absolute favorite line from your post. It is so true its crazy. Teachers that are able to adapt and include everyone's needs in their lessons are the best and normally kids favorites. Having a space in which all kids can find someone they relate to and are able to connect with is super important.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your reflection on the chapter underlining the importance of connected learning communities in improving educational practices and encouraging classroom diversity. Your thoughts on teacher cooperation and the use of technology show how these factors can dramatically increase student results and foster an inclusive environment in which all students feel valued.
ReplyDeleteI love how you highlighted the importance of connected learning and how it benefits teachers all around the world. I agree with your statement "students should never feel isolated or unwanted". I believe that feeling isolated can lead to depression, less engagement in class and feeling like they don't have a support system. Overall, your response explains the chapter very well.
ReplyDeleteI liked how you related your profession wanting to become a teacher to the chapter's topic. I also agree that diversity important in schools. We learn and grow with our peers and we can grow more with diversity around the school.
ReplyDeleteI highly agree with your statement that diversity in the classroom creates a successful classroom! Having students from different backgrounds is a great way to learn about different cultures and ways of life that a classroom or school without diversity can't offer. After working in three different schools, your point about teachers collaborating with one another to meet specific goals is true. I have seen first hand how the connected teacher network model works, and all of the wonderful and effective things that can be achieved following it. There have even been times where slideshows, worksheets, and other newer applications have been shared among teachers of the same subjects to make sure that all of their students are on the same page as their peers, especially in the middle and high schools I work in.
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