Observation Reflections

I completed five hours of observation for this course. For each observation, I created a reflection in relation to management. The prompts for each of the relections are below. To access the reflections, click on the link in the menu bar.

 Reflection 1 Prompt:  

For this observation, try to determine if there is a school-wide philosophy related to management.  What evidence of this philosophy do you see?  Is it reflected in the climate of the school/classroom?  the teacher’s/principal’s behaviors or attitudes?  What do you notice about student behavior?  How does your own philosophy compare to the philosophy held by the teacher you observed?  Describe his/her philosophy based on his/her relationships with students/colleagues, teaching style, discipline approach... 

Reflection 2 Prompt: 

Briefly describe the physical design of the building.  What might be the rationale for designing a school in this manner?  What is unique about the design of this school/classroom?  Analyze the placement of classrooms in the school setting.  What are the advantages and disadvantages of teaching/learning in this setting?  Discuss the atmosphere you feel as you tour the school.  Identify specific layout details that are attractive to you.  What do you notice about the students you see in classrooms?  Are they on-task? engaged?  secure?  Are there common areas in this classroom?  Do they seem appropriate in size or placement?   

Reflection 3 Prompt: 

Observe and reflect with no restrictions or limitations. 

Final observation reflection Prompt: 

In 2-3 pages, briefly summarize the context of your observation.  Then relate your observation to the content, experiences or issues covered in this and other courses.  Let this final reflection reflect your growth as a classroom manager.  In just a few weeks, you will find yourself in a classroom.  How have your attitudes, skills, dispositions evolved over the last 12 weeks as you have prepared yourselves to enter the classroom (in the role of “teacher”)? 

 Blount County Initiative Reflection Prompt:

Reflect on the education forum hosted by the Blount County Initiative.