YOU AS A CONTEMPORARY TEACHER?

You as a contemporary teacher?

To what extent is it reasonable to conclude that if you are not experiencing positive or negative emotions about the materials and activities in any learning experience, that you are potentially disinterested or not motivated? DIscuss in relation to your first emotional response to the nature of this unit.

 While negative emotions are frequently viewed as detrimental to motivation, performance and learning, there are always other factors based on this conclusion.  For myself, in this unit, the fear of the unknown leaves me with a sense of lack of motivation and fear. This creates a negative mind frame on the issue. Personally, I struggle with technology so my first thoughts were negative. I didn't know how to start and it was overwhelming discovering the content. Therefore, I believe it is not only motivation or disinterest that cause negative experiences.  

Elaborate on your emotions on engaging further with this unit? Positive, negative. Indifferent?

From reading other students comments, engaging with content carefully, exploring the options in the digital world has calmed me and has changed my view on it all. Peer expression has insured me that I am not alone and that there is help along the way. 

To what extent do you have the commitment to actively interrogate your emotions, and your beliefs about creative pedagogy (that extends beyond the mere delivery of information to your learners)? How might you be challenged to engage as you enter this unit?

To push pass fear can be tricky and that is the stage I am at now with this unit. I am challenged by stepping out of my comfort zone and diving deep into a world that is not familiar. It is the stepping out that is the hardest as you never know what is on the other side. Having confidence in yourself and in your lectures/peers to help you on the way will help tremendously in engaging with the unit. 

Identify your present values and beliefs about ICT in the classroom. Keep it brief and focused.

Currently, I am on the fence whether or not it is beneficial. I work in a school and have been for 4 years now. I see the good and the bad. Sadly, some days the bad outweighs the good. As students move towards "bring your own devices", I am nervous as a pre-service teacher to be able to manage that within classrooms. I am though, excited to be able to teach content in a fun and visual way that students may have a positive experience. 

Your approach to teaching and learning

I am willing to give students the opportunities to learn in a way so different to how I grew up. It is about providing pedagogy that is relevant and engaging. 

Identify any challenges to your current values and beliefs as you enter this unit?

I am being challenged with the concept that teaching and learning is evolving. Challenged in a way that is not my norm. 

What experience do you have with ICT in the classroom?

The experiences I have come across in using ICT is negative. As stated above, it is a fear of the unknown, yet, I am keen to learn more so I can grow more in this space.