This summer, I had the opportunity to enroll in two challenging courses, 5318 and 5389. Certain aspects of the courses posed considerable challenges, but overall, the learning experience was gratifying. One of the most challenging aspects was designing a professional development (PD) curriculum tailored for teachers while developing a course focused on financial literacy. With better planning, I could have optimized my efforts by creating a cohesive course that catered to the requirements of both classes, thus avoiding redundant work. In addition, I found myself revisiting previous assignments to ensure they aligned with my current direction and plan.
Throughout my courses, I encountered a significant obstacle that required me to have a solid team to work with on projects. While some students had already formed close-knit study groups, I needed help finding a consistent team to work with. However, I took the initiative and interacted with various classmates throughout the term. Even though I didn't have a fixed group, I actively participated in all group discussions, collaborating with different individuals each time. I also found the Groupme for the EDLD program with Dawn helpful. Moreover, I reached out to my former principal and instructional coach for feedback on the course designed for the 5318 course, and their input was valuable.
By regularly responding and replying to others in the discussions, I contributed my perspectives and got to know my peers better. This diverse interaction broadened my understanding of different viewpoints and teaching philosophies, enriching my learning experience. It also allowed me to offer meaningful feedback to my classmates' ideas and projects, which they found helpful in refining their work.
One of the most valuable skills I developed during the courses was taking feedback constructively. Both instructors provided detailed feedback on my previous assignments, highlighting areas for improvement. Rather than being discouraged by critiques, I used them as stepping stones for growth. I carefully analyzed the feedback, identifying areas where my work could be enhanced and ensuring I incorporated these insights into my subsequent assignments.
As the courses progressed, I applied the feedback I received from my instructors to fine-tune my professional development (PD) curriculum and financial literacy course. This revision process strengthened the content and structure of my assignments and allowed me to align them with my current direction and overall plan. I sought to avoid redundancy and ensured that the work I put in for one course complemented and contributed to the other, maximizing the value of my efforts.
While I would have preferred a consistent core group to collaborate with, the dynamic and diverse nature of my interactions with different classmates was a blessing in disguise. It broadened my perspectives, challenged me to adapt to various working styles, and pushed me to become more versatile in my approach to group work.
In conclusion, despite the challenges of not having a fixed core group, I made the most out of the opportunities for collaboration and feedback throughout the courses. Engaging in stimulating group discussions, offering valuable feedback to my peers, and incorporating feedback from my instructors all played pivotal roles in my growth as a learner. The experiences and lessons learned during these courses will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors, enabling me to approach collaboration, feedback, and personal development with greater confidence and enthusiasm.
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