Characteristics and Development of Diverse Learners (EDU-6235)

           I have been attending the course Characteristics and Development of Diverse Learners for the last four months.  This is my first semester as a graduate student at Johnson State College.  I have participated in discussions, written papers, created lesson plans, and read many educational texts.  These experiences have taught me about graduate school, myself as an educator, and education in general. 

            This course has shown me what to expect from graduate school.  I have learned that the relationships you create with your peers are vital for success.  Your peers are there to edit your writing, grow your thinking, and engage in class discussions.  This course had a relaxed feeling that allowed for whole class discussions where everyone felt comfortable to participate.  I learned from my peers’ thoughts and that information they shared in discussions and presentations.

            I was able to learn about myself when completing my Developmental Self-Study.  We read and discussed many different learning theories.  We were then required to apply some of these learning theories to ourselves.  I was able to reflect upon my own development and how I was affected by the different events in my life.  These events molded me into the teacher I am today.
       Through applying these learning theories to myself, I was able to think more deeply about them.  For example, from this experience I decided that I do not agree with John Bowlby’s theory of attachment.  I do agree that children need to develop an attachment with an adult but I do not agree that it has to be primarily with a mother.  I came to this conclusion because of my own experience of growing up with both a mother and father that cared equally for my needs.

            I have learned a lot of information about specific learning disabilities and accommodations that can be useful.  While this information was helpful to learn, this class has reaffirmed my belief that the most important thing an educator can do is get to know his or her students.  Forming a connection with your students and understanding them as learners will help you to become skilled at accommodating their weaknesses and highlighting their strengths. 

            As a first grade teacher, this course has made me more aware of creating Universally Designed lessons.  I believe that my lessons already incorporated some Universal Design but this course has made me want to create lessons that inspire even more student independence and success.  I want every lesson I teach to meet all of my students needs and for my students to have many different ways to access the information.

            Universal Design allows for the concept of inclusion to run more smoothly.  This course has also confirmed my belief in the importance of an inclusive classroom.  I think that students can learn so much from participating in a classroom that is diverse.  They can learn to be a part of a learning community and work together.  These are skills that will serve them well in a workplace.  I believe every child has the ability to learn and that every child has something important to share with his or her peers.   

            Characteristics and Development of Diverse Learners was helpful and a great introduction to graduate school at Johnson State College.  The activities were interesting and well designed and the peers within the class enhanced my learning.  I was able to learn more about my beliefs and myself as an educator.