Standard 9: Reflective Practice: Professional Growth
Description
The teacher is a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of his or her choices and actions on others (students, parents, and other professionals in the learning community) and who actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
Reflection
The best way to develop professionally is to reflect on ones choices and actions, and this can be said for any profession. It is natural for people to look back on an activity, game, conversation, debate, etc and ask themselves what went well, what didn’t, and how can it be improved. This process is no different for teachers, who are expected to perform this process several times everyday. It is important to frequently record these reflections to ensure professional development. Just as the students are expected to learn every day, the teachers are being held to these same standards. Learning is a never ending process for both the students and teachers, and we gain knowledge from reflection everyday.
It is also important to keep in mind that the purpose for teaching is to educate our children, and this should at the front of ones mind whenever reflection is done. Every action that a teachers performs has an effect on the students, whether it is intended or not. A teacher must always be aware of this and make conscious decision based on previous experiences. One way to greatly improve this aspect of teaching is to video tape some teaching lessons. By watching yourself deliver a lesson you can gain a different perspective, which is a great tool in reflection.
Evidence
- Insert pictures/ videos of teaching
- Leadership positions
- Head Lifeguard
- Women’s college soccer coach
- River Guide
- Reflection was an integral part of coaching. We would hold coaching meetings and team meetings after every single game and frequently after practices. During these meetings we would normally discuss what went well, what didn’t, and areas that need more attention or practice.
- Brad Rafferty Resume
