Week 1 reflections

INTERN CLASS: This week we had readings in the textbook, postings about the readings and the "icebreaker" where we had to describe the view from our favorite window and weave in some autobiographical details plus what we teach and our goals for the class.

We have a mix of students from elementary, middle and post-secondary backgrounds. We have students from two continents and four states. Dennis (instructor) and I add two more states.

I tried to welcome each student personally, picking something from their icebreaker to relate to. Some were easier to do than others and I didn't want to repeat myself too often.

One of the comments in the discussion of the readings touched on a post-secondary teacher who was required to "do" their own major assignments. This struck me as I try to do all my own assignments with one student in mind. This also helps me identify who might need my help while they tackle the assignment. I would also have to "do" my own course as an online teacher and in preparation for opening it each time I teach it. This was also brought up by a classmate who made the observation in the scenarios we have to post.

WOW! I am excited by the learners in my intern class. They had a lot to say, and lots of questions that started many great discussions. They reached out to give advice, felt no fear asking questions, and shared many good tips with each other. Dennis set the discussion up for two groups, PK-4 and 4-College. Some went back and forth and had postings in both areas.

We had one drop and another who never showed up. I haven't hear what happened to her yet.