Learning by Teaching

The first connections I began applying from my coursework into my service learning were the learning theories of cognitivism and behaviorism, which was helpful with classroom instruction, as well as constructivism, which I used for lessons requiring critical thinking both for myself and my students. Blogging has really helped me track my own learning and understanding, especially in review at the end of the semester. My favorite assignment was the little video I made on Sputnik, and its effect on education in the United States. I really appreciated the conversations I had with my students on science and technology. In the first blog post I mentioned I would be providing a lot of instruction in math, and this subsequently proved to be true throughout the semester. I was able to build experience in this arena by reviewing the daily math homework in front the class, as well as draw real world connections. In my fifth blog post last month, I addressed some of my thoughts on educationa...

In my service learning placement, I would consider mathematics to be the most pivotal subject taught in our fifth grade, as the state standards require every student to display an introductory level of algebra and geometry prior to entering sixth grade. As a result there are more hours dedicated to these subjects. Due to my busy work schedule and my long commute from Salt Lake to Orem, I am only able to help on Monday and Wednesday. The classroom's guidelines for history and social studies are based on memorizing states and capitals, while art is still included with our literature reviews and weekly music instruction. The students display a rigorous understanding and appreciation for science, which I wish I could attend more. I plan on teaching history and social studies and would consider the state standards compliance pieces to be helpful. If I am teaching at the high school level, I will plan for my students to be prepared for the ACT and/or SAT. With education legis...