Week 32
Changes in Practice.
What has the Mindlab experience given me?
When I reflect on my mindlab experience  I have to admit there were many times where I thought “What have I done?” and was often feeling I had taken on too much. There were many late nights and weekends at school working on assignments.
On a personal level it was a massive commitment, I missed family outings and times of fun with my two children.
On the flipside to these disadvantages of taking on the  extra commitment of study are the positives and rewards. So what have the benefits been for me? Awareness is what comes to mind, awareness of the future of teaching and learning.
Osterman and Kottkamp quote that Awareness is essential for behavioural change     (2015) The mindlab experience has made me aware of the need to critique my teaching practice and to shape my pedagogy into a teacher of 21st century learners . I have been
given the knowledge, empowerment, confidence and teacher agency which has given me the belief that I have a valued and knowledgeable voice within my school.
There has been recent discussion about the release of a new curriculum planned for 2018, in which digital technology will be written into the New Zealand curriculum. I believe the Mindlab experience has left me feeling well equipped to take on such a change in education, I now have the skills, knowledge, confidence and networks (communities of practice) to confidently take on such a challenge.
Key changes in my research informed practice in relation to Criteria 4
Demonstrate commitment to ongoing professional learning and development of professional personal practice.
My studies have meant a change in the way I approach this particular criteria. Before the Mindlab, I would have attended professional development courses and this would have basically been the extent of my on going professional learning.  Now I know the importance of researching peer reviewed articles that are relevant to my classes needs. I feel confident to trial ideas and practices within my classroom that has come about from  my personal research. I now feel like a learner myself and this relates well to a quote in which Schon (1983) says “The practitioner becomes a researcher. . . and engages in a continuing process of self-education”.
Key changes in my research informed practice in relation to Criteria 12: Use critical inquiry and problem-solving effectively in their professional practice
I now find myself comfortably questioning and examining my beliefs and the way they shape my teaching. I understand this is an important part of my professional learning and is vital to provide successful and effective programmes for my learners.
The Mindlab experience has given me the opportunity to become a part of a community of practice, in which I have had many opportunities to share ideas and to respond professionally to feedback from members. This is a platform I will continue to use as I have found it extremely valuable and a successful learning tool for me.
Where to now for me ...
Firstly I will enjoy the weekends and evenings with my children. I shall enjoy the extra time I have to plan and organise for my students. I shall take well deserved time for me! … then, who knows perhaps I shall pursue extra qualifications that may one day lead to my masters in education.



Osterman, K. & Kottkamp, R.(1993). Reflective Practice for Educators. California: Cornwin Press, Inc. Retrieved on 7th May, 2015 from http://www.itslifejimbutnotasweknowit.org.uk/files.

Comments

  1. Paul Goodman8 July 2017 at 22:24

    Hey Keryn
    Good blog. I particularly like your point about being in a community of practice. At my school we had 7 people sign up for Mindlab (at varying stages in the process). Through that, we have become quite a cohesive and functional group when it comes to other initiatives in the school. Were you the only one at your school? I think there is a lot of scope for maintaining Mindlab links even between schools (through a forum like Google + etc).

    Enjoy the weekends with the kids. I too missed out on many family moments with my grandchildren. Hard work.... but worth it in the long run.

    Paul

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