What can you add to your knowledge of you and of your knowledge of teaching in your content area? 

Hi, y'all!  This is the last week of my science teaching methods class.  It has been a wild ride, and I have learned a lot.  I must admit that I was a bit disappointed that I had to take this class, as I thought that I would be able to add a science authorization since I passed the science CSET.  However, a new law was passed recently to require a methods class with each subject added to a single subject credential.  So here I am, back at school, 35 years after getting my first credential back in 1979.

Fortunately, it is possible to teach an old dog new tricks!  I have a lot of experience teaching - but I can always grow and learn.  I have noticed that the good teachers add to their repertoire of teaching strategies as each year passes.  New research provides evidence that certain strategies are more effective than others, and good teachers adapt the new strategies to their teaching styles and content areas.  Students' proclivities change, and teachers must adjust to connect with changed student populations.  This class has made me scrutinize my teaching strategies and teaching styles to evaluate their effectiveness, not only to changed times but to a new content area - science.

I have known that teaching science requires introducing students to scientific inquiry and conducting investigations.  However, now there are many opportunities to use technology to advance understanding.  Computer models for such things as the behavior of waves or atomic bonding allow students to manipulate variables and see the effects.  Many opportunities exist also, for using technology in the assessment process - for example students making videos to demonstrate understanding, or posting comments about a given topic on a social media site or discussion board.  This class has made me more aware, and made me practice using these resources.

I really am enjoying putting together a lesson plan that uses technology - no limits are placed on the type of technology we may use in our plans.  This assignment is forcing me to look far and wide at all that is available.  When teaching now, I limit myself to learning about the technology that is available for me at my school.  However, this class has encouraged me to look beyond these options to all possibilities. 

I hope to be able to use what I have learned in the classroom. Wish me good luck at landing a job teaching science!  I hope to cross paths with you all in the future...