Reflection is the most important skill

3 hours and 50 minutes... In the grand scheme of life, this isn't much time. But for a teacher accustomed to 42 minutes chunks of time, 3 hours and 50 minutes is huge.

I've spent a much of today reflecting on my first college teaching experience. I feel mostly positive about what I was able to accomplish - introductions in a meaningful and thoughtful way, review of the course syllabus, and construction of a hand-bound book for use in the course. It was great to see the students find the rhythm of book binding and create a useful and personal journal. Having used this exact technique with 8th graders, I was pleased to see the college students grasp the procedure and be able to repeat each step indepentantly.

My reflections today brought to mind some areas that need improvement. I assumed a certain skill level that may not be universal. I also need to spell each week's activities out a bit more specifically to avoid confusion. And unfortunately, I think there will need to be a conversation regarding professionalism in general as this course is aimed at preparing students for careers as teachers.

I don't think I spend enough time reflecting on middle school lessons.  When I first began teaching I thought about every activity extensively after it was completed.  But as time goes by, this practice gets a little weak.  I hope to return to reflection this school year and think about how lessons are successful and how they may need improvement.  Without reflection, I won't learn anything from my daily practice.    

All in all, I survived. I feel confident I can teach college art education, and do this well. I believe that I have a wealth of useful knowledge, skills, and experience to share as I continue down this college path.