A New Beginning

I chose this image as a representation of my journey as a student teacher. The road is long and lonely, but with a clear direction: the end is almost in sight, but the future remains uncertain. The sky is dark, yet I see the sunrise in the distance. The circles represent the never-ending cycle of self reflection; the false security of feeling one step closer to realisation. The barriers are there to keep us on the road, yet these are unstable, and shaky in strong wind. 


The writings in my blog from here on in are designed to meet the module outcomes for DMD7230: Advanced Studies in a Specialist Subject, whereas I must maintain a reflective journal to address the following themes:

• Use of reflection and feedback to improve teaching and support learners progression towards challenging targets. 
• A review and extension of Early Years subject knowledge so as to enhance teaching and support learners. 
• A reflection upon the challenges and opportunities presented in relation to equality and diversity.
• A reflection on the role of English, Maths and ICT on a Early Years H.E course, and how learners are supported to develop these skills. 
• A reflection on the concepts of innovation and creativity in education, and their application in practice.

In addressing these key themes I endeavour to adopt a flexible and creative approach, and for this reason define the reflections which are to follow, as: "opening up the can and playing with the worms” (Jones, 2013, p.4). I will, as is advised in the assignment brief, utilise reflective models to aid my thinking, but in my strive for innovation pledge to work outside my comfort zone and attempt those unfamiliar to me at present. My on action reflections (Schon, 1991) are intended to be purposeful and conducted so as to learn from the critical incidents which occur in practice; the main function being consequential action (Mezirow, 2000).