Blog in the field

Here's a link to a blog that talks about bridging the ADHD gap:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/bridging-the-adhd-gap-merle-huerta


This blog discusses tips and ideas for helping students who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The author of this blogger, Merle Huerta, even includes links to research and theory. In the blog Huerta says that the ADHD gap can be bridged through methods of differentiation, child centered learning, movement, mindfulness breaks, and gathering data. Huerta brings forward many valid points that I believe are important in the classroom even for students who do not have a diagnosed disorder. I especially appreciate that Huerta mentioned the use of movement and mindfulness breaks in the classroom because I think that they are effective and often over looked.

The website www.edutopia.org has more interesting blogs by teachers with various topics. It is a helpful tool for educators who want to continue learning and collaborate with other professionals
.

Technology in Education

Kathleen Dunn talks with Susan Pinker, who is a developmental psychologist, about the ways that technology has impacted the classroom in education.The guest says that there is little proven research that increased learning abilities are a result of technology and not of teacher ability. I believe this is note worthy because it makes me wonder why technology plays such a large role in the classroom if there is not strong evidence that it is beneficial for students (is it wrapped up in big business and financial profit?). In fact, Pinker says that strong use of technology in the classroom has adverse effects on populations who are struggling in school. Reasons for this may include lack of access to technology and distractions associated with technology such as social media, gaming, and music.

 I believe that technology in the classroom can be important. For example, I believe that tools such as computers and SMART boards are helpful in a classroom as they provide educators and students with a large variety of educational. I do believe however, that technology is not helpful for all learners. First, I see this in myself. I know that I benefit best from face to face instruction and learning. Furthermore, I would even prefer to not use some technologies during class time because I believe I learn better from face to face methods. With this I recognize that some learners are most successful by using technology frequently, but that it depends on the student. I believe that technology can be a helpful tool in the classroom but that it should be limited.


Here's the link:
http://www.wpr.org/listen/713931

Teaching Philosophy

My goal as an educator is to provide all students with a fair education. I am especially interested in children who come from a low socioeconomic status and who are diagnosed with a disability. I believe that all students are able to learn, and that it is necessary the information is provided in an appropriate manner. In my classroom, students will feel accepted and I will treat them with respect. In return, I expect my students to respect each other and that students will put effort into their learning. In my remaining time at UW Oshkosh I hope to further my understanding of effective instruction and apply the ideas that I have learned to the practice of teaching.

Autobiographical Information

My name is Anna and I am studying Special Education at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.  After I finish my undergraduate degree I hope to do some traveling through the means of teaching in other countries. I feel extremely passionate about working with kids and especially those who are 'at risk'.

When I'm not learning about education I enjoy learning about the environment. I am actively trying to lower my impact on our world. I like to learn about the environment through reading and talking with others who have similar ideology. Some skills that I look forward to developing include food production (in the form of gardening, preparation, and preservation) and sustainability.

I value my relationships with others, including my family and friends. Staying active is important to me and some of the things I enjoy doing include kayaking and hiking. When I can find time I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with new ingredients or techniques.

Here's a photo of me from Spring 2014