Jonathan Stevens
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    • Introduction
    • INTASC Standard 1: Learner Development
    • INTASC Standard 2: Learning Differences
    • INTASC Standard 3: Learning Environments
    • INTASC Standard 4: Content Knowledge
    • INTASC Standard 5: Application of Content
    • INTASC Standard 6: Assessment
    • INTASC Standard 7: Planning for Instruction
    • INTASC Standard 8: Instructional Strategies
    • INTASC Standard 9: Professional Learning and Ethical Practices
    • INTASC Standard 10: Collaboration
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INTASC STANDARD 9: PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND ETHICAL PRACTICES
The teacher engages in ongoing professional learning and uses evidence to continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the effects of his/her choices and actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community), and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.

artifact: OBSERVATION REPORT (click to view)

This observation report was completed for EDTP 639 during week 9. The assignment required an on-site observation of a community-based event outside of normal school hours. I attended a general assembly meeting of the Howard County Parent-Teacher-Student Association on November 10, 2014. I observed the general meeting as well as spent time in discussion with the PTSA leadership and the Howard County School Board Chairperson. The report reflected the details and reflections of this observation.

Rationale:

This artifact represents a perspective of education that is many times overlooked. The observation of involved/concerned parents of public school students allowed me to appreciate the concerns and questions parents have about their children’s education. Being able to gain insight into the parental side of the student-teacher-parent equation allows me to better anticipate how my classroom planning and actions will be interpreted by the parents.

The creation of this artifact revealed to me that I had many misconceptions about the role of the PTSA as well as the perception of parents towards their students. Learning about the support and trust that the parents had for the teachers increases my confidence in being able to interact with parents in my classroom. It also reminded me that parents, like their children, are unique and diverse. Most importantly the observation reinforced the idea that parents are most concerned with the needs of their individual child, which is an important concept to remember when interacting with parents during conferences.

This artifact demonstrates my ability to establish relationships with parents and with administrative members. I am able to evaluate and learn from my professional interactions and appreciate the impact of my pedagogy on students, parents, and the school system. I will work to improve my ability to work with parents who have concerns and while remembering that I represent not only myself but my school and county educational system.

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INTASC Standard #10: Collaboration