Ellen D Collins

Professional Portfolio

 

On Reflection

In John Dewey’s book, How We Think, he stated that reflective thought is “active, consistent and careful consideration of any belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds that support it and the further conclusions to which it tends."

Dewey, John. How We Think, New York: D.C. Heath, 1933.

 

 
 
Professional Growth & Scholarship

While studying in TEAM, I re-examined my mental models of teaching and learning (MM). TEAM required that I reflect on the state of education today and what role I can play as an individual and as a team-member in making education relevant and meaningful to the 21st century (TL & ST). After two years in TEAM, I have realized the value of reflection.(HM-9) Too often as an educator, I am too caught up in the busy schedule of teaching with little time devoted to reflection or for dialogue to share ideas and discuss goals. I found that the assigned readings followed by reflective logs and class discussions made me refocus on my educational philosophy and get in touch with my core beliefs. By doing so, I rediscovered and reconnected with why I became a teacher in the first place. I truly feel prepared to be involved in taking on some of the issues facing education today.

There are a number of resources that have been influential to my learning over the past few years. Click on the Professional Growth & Studies links for further elucidation. Other resources that I have used are listed in del.icio.us.