Angela Gregoire
EDf 1005
Reflection
Education in ancient Egypt was somewhat similar to education in modern times because in both instances children imitated their parents and older adults in the societies they lived. Children in Egypt did different tasks on farms, workshops, and vineyards and got practical skills and knowledge from their elders. Life skills, moral attitude and views of life were passed on to their children in a very practical way. At a very tender age, children are taught by their parents where they inform about the world, about folk rituals, their religion and morals. They are taught to respect other people and the deities. The Books of Instruction, or Wisdom literature were important books in Egypt. In these books children could read about ethical principles, which were generally taught by elders, nobles and scribal classes to younger men. The Egyptians believed in a well- organized and ordered life. Principles of truth –telling and fairness were favored over lying and injustice.
In addition to tribal and at home teaching formal vocational training was part of the education system
Young men were not at liberty to choose their own careers, but most times worked in the family trade or profession. The highest offices were passed on from father to son. The king’s children were tutored by royal tutors who taught them literature, mathematics, grammar and writing. Children from less wealthy families learned to manage households, sing, and dance and play musical instruments. Some girls worked as musicians or singers in temples. The children of farmers and fishermen were educated informally. They were taught to sow, glean, and harvest. In addition, animal husbandry was taught. They could take care of poultry and cattle and they were skilled in making nets and catching fish. Some craftsmen taught the children skills in making ceramic, faience, metalwork, sculpture, and painting.
Literacy was a priority, so artists ,draftsmen and sculptors had to be literate. They converted written texts on papyri and ostraca into hieroglyphs on temples and tombs. Reading and writing were essential skills in both hieratic and hieroglyphic. Religion and foreign languages were not included, and physical education was only taught to kings’ sons. Very often students were given opportunities to practice writing skills using pottery sherds or limestone pieces. Memorization by reading aloud was a common practice and Egyptian children had no set time period for school. Egyptian schools in the old kingdom were informal save for the court and the king’s children and some favored youths.
Education was very important in ancient Sumeria because record keeping was crucial to their development. It was made compulsory and both boys and girls were taught to read and write because everything was written down. Cuneiform, the world’s first writing and its own written language was taught. Most schools were attached to temples and students had to be perfect in their work or they would be beaten and punished. Students in Sumer enjoyed going to school for students who excelled obtained fine jobs. In Sumerian culture literacy was honored highly and was very special. Most schools in Sumer developed following the invention of cuneiform. Writing was taught formerly during the third millennium. Schools were established to train scribes of temples and palaces. Many students who attended were from wealthy families, but poor children could not afford the high cost of education. Egypt and Mesopotamia were the pioneers in education and their methods were somewhat similar.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Angela Gregoire
Reflection #8
EDF 1005
Three waves of Education Reform
Schools in America have gone through three waves of education reform from 1983 up until this present day. Gone are the days when America remained on top in industry, science, and technology. This trend is changing rapidly and reform is needed if we are to compete in a global economy. Education continues to be play an important part in our lives and it is that ingredient which can get us out of poverty. Intellectual training is useful in today’s world and without a sound education one suffers. School reform prepares individuals to become independent and highly competitive and in the process schools are seen as the agents to change individuals and influence society. In this millennium, the fate of schools in the United States depends on teachers’ contributions and a high level of education.
The first wave of reform began in 1983 and lasted until about 1986. The first report in 19983 highlighted a decline in test scores, weak performance in United States students in comparison to students in other parts of the world, fear of economic power, and a high percentage of illiteracy. These were indeed grave concerns for all educators, policy makers, business leaders and even parents. There was need to act, and as a result most states made necessary adjustments to curricula, the number of courses for graduation had increased and of course, more testing requirements for teachers and students. If America is to compete with countries like Japan, better schools should be created. The first wave was realized and the emphasis was on teacher qualification and high school graduation standards.
Readiness was the central focus for the second wave of reform. This reform began in 1986 and lasted up until the new decade when individuals had to be prepared thoroughly before entering schools. During the 1980s schools in the United States were in bad shape. Most of them lacked basic resources and teacher- pupil ratio was very high. The buildings were rodent infested and were in need of dire repair and as a consequence high drop-out rates and low test scores. Because of all these problems, many concerned Americans spoke out and committed financially to help develop American schools. Their concentration was on stronger curriculum, better preparation for work and school and a school structure where students are given support by teachers and counselors. The educational reform led to changes in curriculum, academic performance, better school structures and an improved learning environment.
The third wave of reform followed through the mid 1990s and is still in progress today. This reform continues to prepare American kids to compete in a highly technical and industrial world. School reform remains a top priority in this new millennium and parents are making better choices for their children as a way of improving educational quality. Today reports show that there are achievements in education. Teachers are documented success with higher student expectations and a friendlier curriculum. The third wave has given rise to more legislation in Washington. More parents are given the choices of choosing better schools and supplementary services. I am optimistic that the new administration will take education reform to the next level in the twenty first century. The Obama administration is very supportive of education reform so one can expect renewed changes in education policy. Reforms generally deal with poverty, class based inequality, and the ills of society so I hope that all these issues will be addressed. Policy makers must understand the importance of education and invest in the country’s greatest resource-its people.
Reflection #8
EDF 1005
Three waves of Education Reform
Schools in America have gone through three waves of education reform from 1983 up until this present day. Gone are the days when America remained on top in industry, science, and technology. This trend is changing rapidly and reform is needed if we are to compete in a global economy. Education continues to be play an important part in our lives and it is that ingredient which can get us out of poverty. Intellectual training is useful in today’s world and without a sound education one suffers. School reform prepares individuals to become independent and highly competitive and in the process schools are seen as the agents to change individuals and influence society. In this millennium, the fate of schools in the United States depends on teachers’ contributions and a high level of education.
The first wave of reform began in 1983 and lasted until about 1986. The first report in 19983 highlighted a decline in test scores, weak performance in United States students in comparison to students in other parts of the world, fear of economic power, and a high percentage of illiteracy. These were indeed grave concerns for all educators, policy makers, business leaders and even parents. There was need to act, and as a result most states made necessary adjustments to curricula, the number of courses for graduation had increased and of course, more testing requirements for teachers and students. If America is to compete with countries like Japan, better schools should be created. The first wave was realized and the emphasis was on teacher qualification and high school graduation standards.
Readiness was the central focus for the second wave of reform. This reform began in 1986 and lasted up until the new decade when individuals had to be prepared thoroughly before entering schools. During the 1980s schools in the United States were in bad shape. Most of them lacked basic resources and teacher- pupil ratio was very high. The buildings were rodent infested and were in need of dire repair and as a consequence high drop-out rates and low test scores. Because of all these problems, many concerned Americans spoke out and committed financially to help develop American schools. Their concentration was on stronger curriculum, better preparation for work and school and a school structure where students are given support by teachers and counselors. The educational reform led to changes in curriculum, academic performance, better school structures and an improved learning environment.
The third wave of reform followed through the mid 1990s and is still in progress today. This reform continues to prepare American kids to compete in a highly technical and industrial world. School reform remains a top priority in this new millennium and parents are making better choices for their children as a way of improving educational quality. Today reports show that there are achievements in education. Teachers are documented success with higher student expectations and a friendlier curriculum. The third wave has given rise to more legislation in Washington. More parents are given the choices of choosing better schools and supplementary services. I am optimistic that the new administration will take education reform to the next level in the twenty first century. The Obama administration is very supportive of education reform so one can expect renewed changes in education policy. Reforms generally deal with poverty, class based inequality, and the ills of society so I hope that all these issues will be addressed. Policy makers must understand the importance of education and invest in the country’s greatest resource-its people.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
REflection #6
Angela Gregoire
Reflection #6
EDF 1005
Mankind existed long before the invention of writing, but the invention of writing made it possible to keep and document all historical records. Ancient civilizations became the first established communities that were used to set up states, nations, and empires. People lived peacefully together in small civilizations and it was not difficult to remember important information like names, herds, size of crops, and personal belongings, but as communities expanded there was need to keep records. As time went on man learned to live in permanent communities and agriculture was discovered. This made settlements possible and some cities sprang up. A dependable food source was available and larger populations could be fed. Populations continued to increase and there was need to create different kinds of jobs so as a result more social structures were developed. There was need for more reliable water supplies as farming continued to expand so that’s why some of the great civilizations grew up along rivers. This great thrust of development led the way to the great invention of writing. Man realized the need to keep more records and some form of writing was invented. Civilizations at that used picture writing that is pictures to represent sounds and objects to their readers. The Egyptian hieroglyphics was at the time the best known ancient writing system and most of the earliest work was inscribed on stone. This invention was crucial to all civilization.
Throughout man’s history he has tried to create spoken language into a more visible lasting form but it was not until true writing or phonetic writing records were developed in some civilizations in the world including Sumeria, Egypt, China and Mesoamerica that there was a change in the course of civilization. I am sure that these great innovations helped to create the ability to record information which could be retrieved at a later time. This was indeed a significant achievement but that was just the beginning of things to come. The Sumerians had some of the earliest writings ever discovered and showed aspects of life, such as accosting and tax records. The form of writing evolved and then led to phonetic writing using symbols to represent sounds. It was now possible to represent words with no objects using abstract ideas. Many civilizations developed further in that era. Mexico was one of such civilizations. Based on his needs, man was able to make important inventions and continued to perfect them. This perfection led to organized integration of all civilizations. It is known all over the world that the Sumerians and other Mesopotamians developed literature and writing to assist humanity. The Babylonians were able to document time and were able to create time and seconds and the calendar and later the basis for math and astrology. Many events were recorded, and the invention of writing was so beneficial and important that from its introduction came the establishment of the beginning of history. I am convinced that civilization aided human civilization. Technology influenced the course of civilization, but the Sumerians set the pace for written communication, record keeping and literature. It is true that they developed the first form of writing called cuneiform. The Mesopotamians opened the doors of civilization with the invention of the Gilgamesh, the oldest literary works. Had it not been for them, the Mesopotamians, what would the world be like? These people invested a lot of time and energy in this great civilization we call our own. It is true that that the invention of writing was necessary in order to communicate and document events in history that are so important to our civilization.
Reflection #6
EDF 1005
Mankind existed long before the invention of writing, but the invention of writing made it possible to keep and document all historical records. Ancient civilizations became the first established communities that were used to set up states, nations, and empires. People lived peacefully together in small civilizations and it was not difficult to remember important information like names, herds, size of crops, and personal belongings, but as communities expanded there was need to keep records. As time went on man learned to live in permanent communities and agriculture was discovered. This made settlements possible and some cities sprang up. A dependable food source was available and larger populations could be fed. Populations continued to increase and there was need to create different kinds of jobs so as a result more social structures were developed. There was need for more reliable water supplies as farming continued to expand so that’s why some of the great civilizations grew up along rivers. This great thrust of development led the way to the great invention of writing. Man realized the need to keep more records and some form of writing was invented. Civilizations at that used picture writing that is pictures to represent sounds and objects to their readers. The Egyptian hieroglyphics was at the time the best known ancient writing system and most of the earliest work was inscribed on stone. This invention was crucial to all civilization.
Throughout man’s history he has tried to create spoken language into a more visible lasting form but it was not until true writing or phonetic writing records were developed in some civilizations in the world including Sumeria, Egypt, China and Mesoamerica that there was a change in the course of civilization. I am sure that these great innovations helped to create the ability to record information which could be retrieved at a later time. This was indeed a significant achievement but that was just the beginning of things to come. The Sumerians had some of the earliest writings ever discovered and showed aspects of life, such as accosting and tax records. The form of writing evolved and then led to phonetic writing using symbols to represent sounds. It was now possible to represent words with no objects using abstract ideas. Many civilizations developed further in that era. Mexico was one of such civilizations. Based on his needs, man was able to make important inventions and continued to perfect them. This perfection led to organized integration of all civilizations. It is known all over the world that the Sumerians and other Mesopotamians developed literature and writing to assist humanity. The Babylonians were able to document time and were able to create time and seconds and the calendar and later the basis for math and astrology. Many events were recorded, and the invention of writing was so beneficial and important that from its introduction came the establishment of the beginning of history. I am convinced that civilization aided human civilization. Technology influenced the course of civilization, but the Sumerians set the pace for written communication, record keeping and literature. It is true that they developed the first form of writing called cuneiform. The Mesopotamians opened the doors of civilization with the invention of the Gilgamesh, the oldest literary works. Had it not been for them, the Mesopotamians, what would the world be like? These people invested a lot of time and energy in this great civilization we call our own. It is true that that the invention of writing was necessary in order to communicate and document events in history that are so important to our civilization.
Reflection #5
Angela Gregoire
Reflection # 5
Initiation rites and rites of passage ceremonies have been used in many cultures around the globe to highlight different life transitions. Many tribes in Africa and other parts of the world have structured initiation rites ceremonies beginning from birth to death, but in our society today there are few or no rituals at all. Individuals have serious issues fitting in our communities as they were not prepared in taking rightful places in society and contributing meaningfully and ultimately to function well. I think that rites of passage and initiation rites inculcate values and principles in individuals and assist them to function rationally in their communities. If students are properly trained and disciplined at home, they will behave better at school and therefore, teachers will have fewer problems in managing their classrooms. Some families have some format of initiation ceremonies where their children are taught certain values. Children from these families are more prepared to face the everyday challenges and pose less a threat to the communities in which they live. Children without values, very often fall to alcohol, drugs and crimes .These initiation rites can ease the pressures on social groups like schools and facilitate the flow from one transition to another. Some social problems are dealt with using rituals and individuals learn live comfortably in their own communities. Many of our young people today live in unhealthy communities and are exposed to the ills of society, but they are not equipped to deal with these situations and they were not adequately prepared. Many of these individuals failed to value and appreciate the behavior of the older adults.
As teachers we are constantly instilling values in the students we deal with everyday because we are preparing them to face the world and to take their positions in society. Rites of passage can be seen as a channel to help our youth gain knowledge about their own development and as a bridge to navigate from one transition to the next. These transitions create platforms and build foundations for individuals to grow and develop themselves. The children in our care experience different developmental changes so as teachers we must be prepared to work with them. I believe that rites of passage and initiation rites are important in most cultures because as teachers we function as mentors, guides, counselors, and even parents. Because our schools are becoming more diverse and most parents are employed many students are exiting their transition alone, therefore teachers must provide guidance and support to those needing it. I think that students with no formal or informal transition are quick to adopt their own and very often those that are adopted are not helpful. I am certain that rites of passage can assist greatly in guiding students to deal with a complex world. Modernization and technology have influenced the ways individuals are socialized and are undermining the roots of our cultural heritage. Some stages of the initiation period are painful, but some of life’s important lessons are learnt in the process. I think that initiation rites and rites of passage prepare an individual to cope with life’s long and tedious journey. Rites of passage and initiation rites can be seen as critical elements that can help build and strengthen an individual to face challenges boldly and transform the ways he sees the world. Individuals’ position in society changes as they progress from infant to adulthood, therefore the culture should provide avenues to ease these transitions and celebrate the changes. Many persons are made what they are through ceremonies so these rites are beneficial in resolvingsome of the world’s problems.
Reflection # 5
Initiation rites and rites of passage ceremonies have been used in many cultures around the globe to highlight different life transitions. Many tribes in Africa and other parts of the world have structured initiation rites ceremonies beginning from birth to death, but in our society today there are few or no rituals at all. Individuals have serious issues fitting in our communities as they were not prepared in taking rightful places in society and contributing meaningfully and ultimately to function well. I think that rites of passage and initiation rites inculcate values and principles in individuals and assist them to function rationally in their communities. If students are properly trained and disciplined at home, they will behave better at school and therefore, teachers will have fewer problems in managing their classrooms. Some families have some format of initiation ceremonies where their children are taught certain values. Children from these families are more prepared to face the everyday challenges and pose less a threat to the communities in which they live. Children without values, very often fall to alcohol, drugs and crimes .These initiation rites can ease the pressures on social groups like schools and facilitate the flow from one transition to another. Some social problems are dealt with using rituals and individuals learn live comfortably in their own communities. Many of our young people today live in unhealthy communities and are exposed to the ills of society, but they are not equipped to deal with these situations and they were not adequately prepared. Many of these individuals failed to value and appreciate the behavior of the older adults.
As teachers we are constantly instilling values in the students we deal with everyday because we are preparing them to face the world and to take their positions in society. Rites of passage can be seen as a channel to help our youth gain knowledge about their own development and as a bridge to navigate from one transition to the next. These transitions create platforms and build foundations for individuals to grow and develop themselves. The children in our care experience different developmental changes so as teachers we must be prepared to work with them. I believe that rites of passage and initiation rites are important in most cultures because as teachers we function as mentors, guides, counselors, and even parents. Because our schools are becoming more diverse and most parents are employed many students are exiting their transition alone, therefore teachers must provide guidance and support to those needing it. I think that students with no formal or informal transition are quick to adopt their own and very often those that are adopted are not helpful. I am certain that rites of passage can assist greatly in guiding students to deal with a complex world. Modernization and technology have influenced the ways individuals are socialized and are undermining the roots of our cultural heritage. Some stages of the initiation period are painful, but some of life’s important lessons are learnt in the process. I think that initiation rites and rites of passage prepare an individual to cope with life’s long and tedious journey. Rites of passage and initiation rites can be seen as critical elements that can help build and strengthen an individual to face challenges boldly and transform the ways he sees the world. Individuals’ position in society changes as they progress from infant to adulthood, therefore the culture should provide avenues to ease these transitions and celebrate the changes. Many persons are made what they are through ceremonies so these rites are beneficial in resolvingsome of the world’s problems.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Angela Gregoire
Reflection 4
EDF 1005
Week 2
The recent discovery of the Hominid species, which lived in northeast Africa, in the Hadar region of Ethiopia, has changed the way we look at ourselves. Until 1995, the earliest known member of the Hominid family was discovered. This species lived approximately four to three million years ago along the northern Rift Valley of last Africa. Because pieces of over three hundred individuals of Australopithecus Afarensis have been discovered man is beginning to accept its evolution. Among the discoveries, was a remarkable complete skeleton of an adult female called ‘Lucy’? It is said that ‘Lucy’ was found in 1974 near Hadar in Ethiopia. ‘Lucy’s’ skeleton has provided evidence and knowledge about the ancestral line of human beings. It is said that Lucy was about three and eight inches tall. There is strong debate that the first humans came from Africa two millions years ago. During the last thirty years there have been evidence that a large number of fossils of early Homo sapiens have been uncovered. This has triggered a lot of interest and every year since then, the picture of our human evolutionary tree keeps growing clearer. It is believed that our ancestors were small in stature, with arms and legs and a skeleton similar to an ape. Anthropologists are convinced that human evolution has diverse branches and people are more convinced that our descendants came from Africa.
Even before the discovery of Lucy there were many others. Eugene Dubois discovered fossils of a larger brained species of Homo erectus in Java in 1891. He described his fossils as having long, straight legs. Many still believe that they were excellent walkers and they had large brains. More evidence of other fossils has been found in Java. The fossils of Homo erectus had features similar to modern man. The evidence provided helps us as human beings to understand the concept of evolution.
Recent findings in East Africa have helped to put pieces of the puzzle together. Discoveries in 1776 of a complete Homo erectus skull convinced us even further.This finding in Africa was the start of great human expansion. As modern human beings were emerging, they adapted to the different climatic conditions. This evolutionary process was ongoing and a final phase emerged when present day humans, Homo sapiens first appeared in Africa .The first fossil was found six hundred thousand years ago. in 1856 near the Neander Valley of Germany. Early Europeans called them Neanderthals. It is believed that they originated from Africa.
There is still a lot of debate about the origin of today’s human races. Biologists believe that Homo sapiens evolved only once in Africa and then migrated to Europe and Asia. I am somewhat skeptical about all this, although most of the evidence is documented. All that information about the evolution is very fascinating to me. I am still not convinced that Asian Homo sapiens evolved from Africa because they look so different and the adaptation process takes a long time. These races may have adapted to different environments, but looking at modern day man it is hard to believe. There are so many visible differences that one can easily doubt the evolution process.
Information from scientists in California claimed that human races originated from one Homo sapiens ancestor in Africa. In 1987, they chose mitochondrial DNA to study hominid evolution because females transmit the DNA with mitochondria. It is believed that female eggs carry many mitochondria that become part of a new baby, while sperm contribute no mitochondria to a new baby. Because mitochondrial gene can be traced back through family trees, there is evidence that chromosome 12 had existed in African humans much longer than in non-Africans. Because of the evidence of fossils of early races from Africa and Israel many are convinced that there is substantial information to support an African model of human origin. Although there is ongoing debate about the subject of evolution, it seems likely that Homo sapiens may have evolved from Africa then migrated out of Africa to Europe then Asia. Because of all the research done by scientists more people all over the world are beginning to accept the concept of evolution.
Reflection 4
EDF 1005
Week 2
The recent discovery of the Hominid species, which lived in northeast Africa, in the Hadar region of Ethiopia, has changed the way we look at ourselves. Until 1995, the earliest known member of the Hominid family was discovered. This species lived approximately four to three million years ago along the northern Rift Valley of last Africa. Because pieces of over three hundred individuals of Australopithecus Afarensis have been discovered man is beginning to accept its evolution. Among the discoveries, was a remarkable complete skeleton of an adult female called ‘Lucy’? It is said that ‘Lucy’ was found in 1974 near Hadar in Ethiopia. ‘Lucy’s’ skeleton has provided evidence and knowledge about the ancestral line of human beings. It is said that Lucy was about three and eight inches tall. There is strong debate that the first humans came from Africa two millions years ago. During the last thirty years there have been evidence that a large number of fossils of early Homo sapiens have been uncovered. This has triggered a lot of interest and every year since then, the picture of our human evolutionary tree keeps growing clearer. It is believed that our ancestors were small in stature, with arms and legs and a skeleton similar to an ape. Anthropologists are convinced that human evolution has diverse branches and people are more convinced that our descendants came from Africa.
Even before the discovery of Lucy there were many others. Eugene Dubois discovered fossils of a larger brained species of Homo erectus in Java in 1891. He described his fossils as having long, straight legs. Many still believe that they were excellent walkers and they had large brains. More evidence of other fossils has been found in Java. The fossils of Homo erectus had features similar to modern man. The evidence provided helps us as human beings to understand the concept of evolution.
Recent findings in East Africa have helped to put pieces of the puzzle together. Discoveries in 1776 of a complete Homo erectus skull convinced us even further.This finding in Africa was the start of great human expansion. As modern human beings were emerging, they adapted to the different climatic conditions. This evolutionary process was ongoing and a final phase emerged when present day humans, Homo sapiens first appeared in Africa .The first fossil was found six hundred thousand years ago. in 1856 near the Neander Valley of Germany. Early Europeans called them Neanderthals. It is believed that they originated from Africa.
There is still a lot of debate about the origin of today’s human races. Biologists believe that Homo sapiens evolved only once in Africa and then migrated to Europe and Asia. I am somewhat skeptical about all this, although most of the evidence is documented. All that information about the evolution is very fascinating to me. I am still not convinced that Asian Homo sapiens evolved from Africa because they look so different and the adaptation process takes a long time. These races may have adapted to different environments, but looking at modern day man it is hard to believe. There are so many visible differences that one can easily doubt the evolution process.
Information from scientists in California claimed that human races originated from one Homo sapiens ancestor in Africa. In 1987, they chose mitochondrial DNA to study hominid evolution because females transmit the DNA with mitochondria. It is believed that female eggs carry many mitochondria that become part of a new baby, while sperm contribute no mitochondria to a new baby. Because mitochondrial gene can be traced back through family trees, there is evidence that chromosome 12 had existed in African humans much longer than in non-Africans. Because of the evidence of fossils of early races from Africa and Israel many are convinced that there is substantial information to support an African model of human origin. Although there is ongoing debate about the subject of evolution, it seems likely that Homo sapiens may have evolved from Africa then migrated out of Africa to Europe then Asia. Because of all the research done by scientists more people all over the world are beginning to accept the concept of evolution.
Reflection 3
Angela Gregoire
EDF 1005
Week Two
Reflection 3
Attending an elementary school in a Caribbean island was a truly enjoyable experience. At that time most families were from lower socioeconomic environments. All students were equals. Children who attended school came from neighboring communities and at school everyone was taught to respect each other regardless of where you came from or who you were. Some children were from very poor communities and experienced difficulty in adjusting in the school environment. Because of their upbringing and economic background these students were sometimes treated differently, but the teachers afforded them equal chances in school. These students contributed in building strong and healthy communities. Many students had their own languages and dialect and teachers had to work a little harder with them and try to share different experiences with them. Their culture was somewhat different and adjustments were made to accommodate their needs. Teachers at the elementary school developed strategies and materials to encourage success for all diverse students in their schools. Teachers helped students understand and relate to cultural differences such as religion, age, gender, socioeconomic, language, culture and ethnic differences. Teachers at the elementary schools integrate d multicultural education with other subject areas.
Coming from a middle class family and attending a prestigious Catholic school in the capital city was a remarkable journey. At the secondary school students from all socioeconomic class interacted with each other. Students who came in speaking different languages had to learn the official language which was English. Students whose customs were different were made aware of the cultural norms and had to participate in activities related to our own culture. These students had to integrate into the school system and country’s culture. Those who did not conform to the rules of school and society would have to leave. At school students were taught history and social skills and they learn about different cultures. Students from all backgrounds were given equal opportunities in education. Some students from different background maintained some aspects of the culture but adapted to the school and country’s culture. Multi-culturism was managed by the schools and the government. My secondary school was a religious school, but students from other faiths were allowed in the system but they had to comply with the teachings. These students could not influence other students with their religious beliefs. They were obliged to attend all activities and participate in all religious retreats. It was a decision made from the onset that they would have to comply with all decisions. Most scholarships at that school were given to students of the upper class. Students from the middle class families received minimal opportunities while students from higher socioeconomic brackets benefited immensely.
Multiculturism sometimes encourage discontent and weaken societies that are not organized. At school students were taught literature about people from diverse cultures. Students were made aware of different people and their culture in different activities. People from different cultures were incorporated into the curriculum without significant changes in the curriculum. Teachers at the secondary schools could manage cultural differences in classes and schools because the differences were minor. Students usually created port folios, projects and symposiums to highlight people from diverse cultures. If I could go back to the elementary and secondary schools again I would encourage teachers to adopt either the contribution approach or the additive approach. In these approaches, culturally diverse books and issues are not specified as part of the curriculum.
EDF 1005
Week Two
Reflection 3
Attending an elementary school in a Caribbean island was a truly enjoyable experience. At that time most families were from lower socioeconomic environments. All students were equals. Children who attended school came from neighboring communities and at school everyone was taught to respect each other regardless of where you came from or who you were. Some children were from very poor communities and experienced difficulty in adjusting in the school environment. Because of their upbringing and economic background these students were sometimes treated differently, but the teachers afforded them equal chances in school. These students contributed in building strong and healthy communities. Many students had their own languages and dialect and teachers had to work a little harder with them and try to share different experiences with them. Their culture was somewhat different and adjustments were made to accommodate their needs. Teachers at the elementary school developed strategies and materials to encourage success for all diverse students in their schools. Teachers helped students understand and relate to cultural differences such as religion, age, gender, socioeconomic, language, culture and ethnic differences. Teachers at the elementary schools integrate d multicultural education with other subject areas.
Coming from a middle class family and attending a prestigious Catholic school in the capital city was a remarkable journey. At the secondary school students from all socioeconomic class interacted with each other. Students who came in speaking different languages had to learn the official language which was English. Students whose customs were different were made aware of the cultural norms and had to participate in activities related to our own culture. These students had to integrate into the school system and country’s culture. Those who did not conform to the rules of school and society would have to leave. At school students were taught history and social skills and they learn about different cultures. Students from all backgrounds were given equal opportunities in education. Some students from different background maintained some aspects of the culture but adapted to the school and country’s culture. Multi-culturism was managed by the schools and the government. My secondary school was a religious school, but students from other faiths were allowed in the system but they had to comply with the teachings. These students could not influence other students with their religious beliefs. They were obliged to attend all activities and participate in all religious retreats. It was a decision made from the onset that they would have to comply with all decisions. Most scholarships at that school were given to students of the upper class. Students from the middle class families received minimal opportunities while students from higher socioeconomic brackets benefited immensely.
Multiculturism sometimes encourage discontent and weaken societies that are not organized. At school students were taught literature about people from diverse cultures. Students were made aware of different people and their culture in different activities. People from different cultures were incorporated into the curriculum without significant changes in the curriculum. Teachers at the secondary schools could manage cultural differences in classes and schools because the differences were minor. Students usually created port folios, projects and symposiums to highlight people from diverse cultures. If I could go back to the elementary and secondary schools again I would encourage teachers to adopt either the contribution approach or the additive approach. In these approaches, culturally diverse books and issues are not specified as part of the curriculum.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Saturday, January 9, 2010
BIO and Statement of Purpose
Bio and Statement of Purpose
I am Angela Gregoire, a senior student at the Miami Dade College. I have completed an AA degree and am presently doing some prerequisite course. I hope to earn a bachelors degree in Exceptional Student Education by 2012.
Upon completion of this degree I will work as a special education teacher at an elementary school or a high school. I always wanted to be a teacher so I can assist students who are less fortunate. Being a teacher is a special calling because it is not a job suited to anyone. I love children and I want to build the academic foundation of young kids. To be a teacher one must have an innate love for it. Teaching can be a very rewarding profession and require great skill and creativity. A teacher should be a good communicator because she communicates on a daily basis with students and parents. Every teacher needs to provide a safe and conducive environment where every child can reach his or her full potential.I believe every child can succeed and it is a great joy to watch kids progress.
I am Angela Gregoire, a senior student at the Miami Dade College. I have completed an AA degree and am presently doing some prerequisite course. I hope to earn a bachelors degree in Exceptional Student Education by 2012.
Upon completion of this degree I will work as a special education teacher at an elementary school or a high school. I always wanted to be a teacher so I can assist students who are less fortunate. Being a teacher is a special calling because it is not a job suited to anyone. I love children and I want to build the academic foundation of young kids. To be a teacher one must have an innate love for it. Teaching can be a very rewarding profession and require great skill and creativity. A teacher should be a good communicator because she communicates on a daily basis with students and parents. Every teacher needs to provide a safe and conducive environment where every child can reach his or her full potential.I believe every child can succeed and it is a great joy to watch kids progress.
Reflection 2-EDF 1005
Reflection 2 EDF-1005
Man’s inventions throughout history have changed his thinking and his concept of how he sees the world. Although changing from one paradigm to another requires great effort man continues to shift his paradigm from one invention to the next. Human invention did not stop at the discovery of fire but he built on that concept to create heaters. He used the transfer of heat to cook, keep warm, and to preserve food. From a simple idea, he progressed to more advanced inventions. This simply shows how man can change his thinking based on new ideas and concepts that confronts him. Man never remained static in his quest for power, knowledge and information for he has continued to develop the hotplate, stoves, toaster and even microwaves.
Simple inventions like hand tools, and boats have enable people to see the world differently and influence their thinking. One invention led to many more sophisticated inventions. These inventions are changing lives every day. Because of all these inventions peoples lives are less complex. Students can sit in the comfort of their homes in front of a computer and gain an education without having to face the classroom. Based on his need, man is able to make inventions to satisfy his demands. In the process he learns to solve problems and acquire knowledge. Necessity sometimes drives man to invent things that he never thought could have been invented. Each invention has brought about new ways of seeing connections from one invention to another. Man continues to shift paradigms after one creation to the next and one invention creates the basis for a reinvention. Because paradigms can be shifted, when one paradigm replaces another, conflicts between old patterns of thinking and behavior work themselves out easily.
The invention of the computer and microchip has changed the way business is done in the world. We depend heavily on computer technology to run the world. We no longer have to store piles and piles of paper in our homes and offices. Kids as young as two years can use the computer and they find it fascinating. Technology is now the catalyst for even greater inventions. The computer has opened our minds for many possibilities. There is too much information to process in one lifetime but the computer has made it easy. The computer has influenced the way we think and learn in the twenty-first century. Man’s perception of the world has changed based on his inventions. Man has brought about many changes on this planet in an attempt to facilitate his own existence.
Man’s inventions throughout history have changed his thinking and his concept of how he sees the world. Although changing from one paradigm to another requires great effort man continues to shift his paradigm from one invention to the next. Human invention did not stop at the discovery of fire but he built on that concept to create heaters. He used the transfer of heat to cook, keep warm, and to preserve food. From a simple idea, he progressed to more advanced inventions. This simply shows how man can change his thinking based on new ideas and concepts that confronts him. Man never remained static in his quest for power, knowledge and information for he has continued to develop the hotplate, stoves, toaster and even microwaves.
Simple inventions like hand tools, and boats have enable people to see the world differently and influence their thinking. One invention led to many more sophisticated inventions. These inventions are changing lives every day. Because of all these inventions peoples lives are less complex. Students can sit in the comfort of their homes in front of a computer and gain an education without having to face the classroom. Based on his need, man is able to make inventions to satisfy his demands. In the process he learns to solve problems and acquire knowledge. Necessity sometimes drives man to invent things that he never thought could have been invented. Each invention has brought about new ways of seeing connections from one invention to another. Man continues to shift paradigms after one creation to the next and one invention creates the basis for a reinvention. Because paradigms can be shifted, when one paradigm replaces another, conflicts between old patterns of thinking and behavior work themselves out easily.
The invention of the computer and microchip has changed the way business is done in the world. We depend heavily on computer technology to run the world. We no longer have to store piles and piles of paper in our homes and offices. Kids as young as two years can use the computer and they find it fascinating. Technology is now the catalyst for even greater inventions. The computer has opened our minds for many possibilities. There is too much information to process in one lifetime but the computer has made it easy. The computer has influenced the way we think and learn in the twenty-first century. Man’s perception of the world has changed based on his inventions. Man has brought about many changes on this planet in an attempt to facilitate his own existence.
Reflection 1- EME 2040
Reflection 1
A lesson plan is a teacher’s organized and detailed description outlining methods of delivery, materials used, steps in lesson and explaining ways in which the lesson will be executed. A lesson plan should be student oriented and teacher planned. The lesson planned is a guide to what the teacher plans to teach. The important points of the lesson are done in a sequential order and the strategies to be employed are stated clearly the lesson plan keeps the teacher on track so that there are very few opportunities to stray away from the lesson and get the students confused. Proper execution of a lesson is critical to students learning. When teachers prepare lesson plans they are more confident and are better able to present a good lesson. Preparing the lesson gives the teacher sufficient time to prepare and collect the materials needed.
An outline of a direct instruction lesson should improve the following subtopics: objectives anticipatory set, input, guided practice, monitoring, closure, and independent practice. These elements of a lesson plan should enhance learning if they are properly used. Using the behaviorist plan students are given opportunities to think at varying levels using Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Using the constructivist learning design teachers create opportunities for students to express themselves by explaining, forming groups, building bridges between what students should know and what they intend to learn. It allows students to be independent thinkers and to be very creative. This design encourages grouping in the classroom I think using the bridge is an excellent idea because students can start from what they already know to explain a process or situation. It also gives students opportunities to play games, make list, and solve problems. The questioning element is an excellent strategy to use the students because it helps them to become great thinkers. Exhibiting students work in the classroom can be very rewarding. Most students like to see their work displayed and it creates a sense of accomplishment. Using the reflections students expresses their feelings and they also internalize important concepts learned from the lesson. Students are engaged in their own learning using the constructivist approach as they become independent learners and creative thinkers. It also maximizes student’s involvement in the learning process.
With the transpersonal plan the skills can be taught using an integrative approach in other subject areas like social studies, science and biology. The content areas of this approach deals directly with the lives of the individuals and are relevant to their day to day existence. Transpersonal education prepares students for life. It encourages them to make right choices, deal with extreme situations and to have more control of their own lives.
A lesson plan is a teacher’s organized and detailed description outlining methods of delivery, materials used, steps in lesson and explaining ways in which the lesson will be executed. A lesson plan should be student oriented and teacher planned. The lesson planned is a guide to what the teacher plans to teach. The important points of the lesson are done in a sequential order and the strategies to be employed are stated clearly the lesson plan keeps the teacher on track so that there are very few opportunities to stray away from the lesson and get the students confused. Proper execution of a lesson is critical to students learning. When teachers prepare lesson plans they are more confident and are better able to present a good lesson. Preparing the lesson gives the teacher sufficient time to prepare and collect the materials needed.
An outline of a direct instruction lesson should improve the following subtopics: objectives anticipatory set, input, guided practice, monitoring, closure, and independent practice. These elements of a lesson plan should enhance learning if they are properly used. Using the behaviorist plan students are given opportunities to think at varying levels using Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Using the constructivist learning design teachers create opportunities for students to express themselves by explaining, forming groups, building bridges between what students should know and what they intend to learn. It allows students to be independent thinkers and to be very creative. This design encourages grouping in the classroom I think using the bridge is an excellent idea because students can start from what they already know to explain a process or situation. It also gives students opportunities to play games, make list, and solve problems. The questioning element is an excellent strategy to use the students because it helps them to become great thinkers. Exhibiting students work in the classroom can be very rewarding. Most students like to see their work displayed and it creates a sense of accomplishment. Using the reflections students expresses their feelings and they also internalize important concepts learned from the lesson. Students are engaged in their own learning using the constructivist approach as they become independent learners and creative thinkers. It also maximizes student’s involvement in the learning process.
With the transpersonal plan the skills can be taught using an integrative approach in other subject areas like social studies, science and biology. The content areas of this approach deals directly with the lives of the individuals and are relevant to their day to day existence. Transpersonal education prepares students for life. It encourages them to make right choices, deal with extreme situations and to have more control of their own lives.
Reflection 1- EDF1005
Reflection 1
Teacher preparation from colonial times to the present day has changed drastically. Teachers have worked in deplorable conditions and most teachers were not trained to enter the classrooms. Teachers felt very discouraged by the poor working conditions, lack of respect and low wages. Most teachers were not empowered in their jobs and they were dissatisfied with the negative public image that they were faced with. At that time teachers were not recognized for the work they did every day. Very few teachers were prepared for the classroom. Most teachers had just a little more than elementary schooling themselves and rarely received professional training. They felt inadequate and could not handle the daily challenges in the classroom. Teachers were paid very little and much was not budgeted for educational programs. All this contributed to negative public image and decline in teacher morale.
After some reform in the 1980’s, working conditions had improved in schools and teachers felt more responsible. There were many initiatives to improve public schooling and teacher’s morale was boosted. Spending in public schools had improved and teachers received reasonable wages and more money was budgeted for teacher preparation. There was a significant improvement of teaching methods and more textbooks and other school supplies were readily available. During the nineteenth century there was an influx of trained women in the teaching profession. Teachers were mandated to attend teacher colleges before entering the classroom. Frequent revisions were made to the school’s curricula and there was need for more training programs for teachers. There was more specialized training and teachers had to meet higher professional training standards while student performance improved. Because authorities demanded better quality, training programs became more intense. There were more stringent licensing mechanisms and much improved national certification standards. In some school districts master teachers were required and only qualified teachers were admitted in classrooms. The Teach for America can be a good idea if teachers are adequately prepared because students who are most vulnerable are taught by teachers who are unprepared. Although the Teach for America is a well developed program, it does not meet the standards for quality teacher preparation. I think it has helped .to formulate strong policies on teacher preparation. It is my view that teachers in the twenty first century need to be better trained to prepare learners for a highly industrial and technical world.
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