Today is our last session of AEE 412 for the semester. Over the past few months, we have been on an amazing adventure of growth and learning. Through "money Mondays", lab Wednesdays, reflective Fridays, National FFA Convention, field trips, and field teaching experiences, the 412 students have had many unique opportunities to develop the skill set they will need for a successful student teaching internship next semester.
This week the focus of 412 was on the importance of reflection and how it is crucial for growth as an educator. To practice this skill, we had a "kiva" discussion. A kiva is an underground room that was built and utilized by the Puebloans for important meetings and ceremonies. Those who sat in the center of the room in the "inner circle" had the power to speak, while those who sat on the edges of the room were asked to listen. The roles would switch, so that everyone had a chance to listen and to speak.
Prior to the kiva session, the students wrote down discussion points on index cards. As they took their turn in the center of the kiva in small groups, the points were read aloud and discussed. Through reflective discussion, the kiva took us on a journey that recapped the adventure we have been on and what we have learned.
At the end of the kiva session, each group drew a picture of their interpretation of the 412 experience this semester. Here is what was shared:
Our week of reflection continued on Wednesday with a workshop from Matt Reutlinger. Matt is a PSU graduate who served as a PA FFA State Officer. His workshop focused on maximizing the use of effective reflection. Through a series of fun and interactive activities, the AEE 412 students practiced the skills that are essential for proper reflection as a component of experiential learning.
This semester of AEE 412 has been quite the ride! As we look back on what we have done, we use what we have learned to prepare for the future. We can't wait to see what lies ahead!
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