Teaching has caused me to venture on a self growth journey in many aspects. One example is learning and accepting that educators make mistakes and that is okay. Previously, receiving feedback was difficult for me because if someone gave me constructive criticism I would deeply take it to heart and feel as if I was failing. However, through my teaching and practicum experiences my opinion has changed. Having many observations and discussions made me see the value in critical feedback and I even enjoyed it by the end. Sometimes lessons do not hit the mark with students and that is okay. In addition, I look back at lesson plans from my first practicum and can see the growth I have made. My assessment is more accessible for all students, my ability to make adaptations for students needs has improved and the overall flow of lessons are much better. I am sure I will look back after my first year of teaching and feel the same way. All of this is perfectly normal. As an educator it has taught me to accept mistakes because they are all apart of the journey to become the best educator I can be for my students.
Teacher Candidate