Reflection
Professional Development
During my time in the Educ 635 course on Assessing Language and Learning Differences, I had the opportunity to close observe and participate in the intervention process of Jack (pseudonym), an 11-year-old fourth grader at William Cramp Elementary School in Philadelphia. Jack's reading performance on standardized tests was significantly below grade level, prompting the school to assign a reading specialist, Elim (pseudonym), to provide targeted support.
The invaluable experience allowed me to develop professionally and gain insights into the role of a reading specialist in supporting students. I summarize that the literacy assessment process should be divided into three phases: understanding the student's background and experience (past), evaluating the student's current level (present), and based the above information than planning the student's future curriculum (future). The purpose of assessment is to enhance the teacher's understanding of the student, making learning more accessible and engaging for the student. Educators should be clear that the goal of literacy assessment is to facilitate and support student learning.
One challenge that stands out from this observation is the limited time allocated for Jack's intervention sessions, which is 20 minutes for each class. Every time, Elim could not complete the planned learning plans and activities, leading to a confused end. I believe this issue would have diminished the effectiveness of the intervention result and maybe even caused a bad effect. Schools should prioritize providing genuine support to students, which at least finishes the lesson plan and give students time to ask questions rather than merely adhering to formalities. This experience give me a chance to see the problem of the intervention process, which give me a chance to think about how to make a change in the education system.
Professional Development
Fieldwork
The fieldwork experience in the Reading/Writing/Literacy (R/W/L) program has profoundly impacted my understanding of the importance of recognizing and valuing students' identities and experiences in the educational process. My involvement in EDUC 629 - Teaching English/Language & Literacy in Middle & Secondary Schools provided me with the opportunity to participate in Friday Write Night as a writing tutor. This enriching experience has underscored the significance of considering students' individuality and cultural context when guiding them through their learning journey.
It is essential to acknowledge that students come from diverse cultural backgrounds, influencing their perspectives and understanding of the world, or say they have their own world. I encountered this firsthand with my student, Miya (a pseudonym). She sought my assistance in crafting her college entrance essays, which required a deep understanding of her unique background. In the limit of 30 minutes, Miya shared details about Indian customs, festivals, and handmade articles that represented her heritage, as well as personal stories about her family. This information not only enabled me to better support her in developing her essay, but it also allowed me to empathize with her situation. Consequently, I was able to tailor my assistance to Miya's needs, considering not only her writing skills but also her family context.
Building strong relationships with students is an important aspect of teaching. In my case, the connections I have with my students often resemble friendships. Because when I reflected on my own adolescent school years, my favorite teacher, whom I affectionately called "Dange," created a welcoming and nurturing environment by treating students as friends. This approach fostered a strong sense of trust, ultimately leading to a more effective learning experience. It is my aspiration to cultivate similar bonds with my students in the future. Not only enriches the educational experience for both students and teachers but also promotes a more inclusive and respectful learning environment. In the ever-evolving, diverse landscape of education, embracing students' individuality and fostering strong connections are key components of professional teaching practices.
Fieldwork
Growing up in a lawyer and judge family, I aspired to be an upholder of justice. My ambition is to one day become an educator who is committed to educational change and social justice. Personally, I have had the incredible experience of primary and secondary teaching. I am applying for an M.S.Ed. in Reading, Writing, and Literacy because I believe I have tremendous potential to inspire and encourage learners from various age groups, backgrounds, and cultures to reach their full potential and participate in educational change from a broader perspective.
During my undergraduate and postgraduate years in law school, I analyzed hundreds of cases and participated in multiple moot court events; I have come to realize, time and time again, how the lack of fair opportunities in education has shaped the society we live in and how severe, yet how neglected, the problem is.
During my last two years at UPenn GSE, I learned about education in the society of the United States, which gave me a more diverse and open mind about the relationship between education and social justice. And I am more and more determined that education is so powerful that it can make the society more just.
My research thus far has revealed that digital literacy offers students a personalized space for learning and introspection, as well as a collaborative platform for communication and interaction. My forthcoming endeavor is to delve deeply into the realm of digital literacy development and explore its multifaceted benefits for education, encompassing schools, educators, and students. At the same time, I will also focus on the negative effects of students using digital tools. The central questions guiding my further research will be, but are not limited to: How can digital tools be harnessed to enhance the educational experience positively? What specific applications should these tools be utilized for, and what strategies should be employed to equip teachers and instruct students effectively?
I am convinced that digital literacy will play an increasingly significant role in promoting social justice. I am committed to discovering innovative and efficacious approaches for integrating digital literacy into our educational systems. Realizing social justice will be my lifelong pursuit.
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