Professional Communities

My first class in the MAT program was MEDUC 504, Technology in Education. One of the greatest tools I gained from this course was the development of a Professional Learning Network. This included creating a Twitter account and identifying resources to follow, and creating other online communities. One of my favorite resource that I found during this time is EdWeb, which allows me to connect with colleagues and communities on various topics. The EdWeb community includes blogs, discussion boards, resource library, and webinars with research, tools, and connections to materials and ideas for every classroom. One of the communities I visit frequently is Arts & Music in Early Learning, which is sponsored by Music Together.

With a background in Music Education I know what an important role music plays in education. An upcoming webinar caught my interest, Supporting the Development of Children's Approaches to Learning with Music and Movement Activities, scheduled for September 27. Even if I am unable to watch the webinar live, EdWeb keeps archives so I can access it at any time. This webinar will explore how music making supports a variety of learning styles, and may help us as educators gain insight into how our students learn.

http://home.edweb.net/webinar/childrens-learning-music-movement/

Multiple Intelligences

In recent years I've become very interested in the concept of multiple intelligences, as most are familiar with through the research and writing of Howard Gardner. I certainly believe that there are areas of interest and strength that differ from person to person. What I find most fascinating is that depending on my mood or stress levels, I could be categorized differently. I also believe that areas of strength or interest may change over time, or depending on situations or environment. This adds another dimension, and makes me consider how much is true intelligence, or simply habits and behaviors that are developed based on setting or other outside factors. For example, my leadership and public speaking skills have developed over time as a result of being a supervisor and providing training for staff members.

I do believe being familiar with the different areas of intelligence is important when working with students in the classroom. By being able to identify specific areas which students either excel or struggle, I will be better able to connect and engage them, while also challenging them.

Feel free to check out this modified questionnaire for your own self assessment of your multiple intelligences!

http://www.edutopia.org/multiple-intelligences-assessment