Reflective Fieldnote Blog Entry # 5- Personal Reflection on My Journey

Coursework

I have found most of the coursework to be very beneficial to my career. I have learned a lot about how to implement an ESL program, how I can prepare for new incoming ESL students, methods for teaching these children, and the laws and regulations concerning my ESL students. I have also discovered numerous strategies that I have already applied in my ESL classroom. Overall, I believe the coursework in this program has made me a better ESL teacher.

Processes for obtaining licensure

I completed my ESL licensing coursework and took the Praxis summer 2009.

Experiences working with ESL students

I have been working with ESL students since August 2009. It has been interesting implementing an ESL program in the small town I live in, but it has been worth it. I have also found it very rewarding. I truly enjoy working with ESL students. I believe I have learned more than they have just by working with them and learning about their past and cultures. I hope I can continue to working with English Language Learners for many more years.

Application of your Wiki and related materials designed as part of specific classes

I have found that the literature circles, fluency activities, the action research project, and student interviews are an integral part of not only teaching students, but also learning about their personal and educational needs. I have implemented these strategies into the classroom and have found them to be successful.

I have to admit, when I first learned I had to create a Wiki, I did not understand the point of doing so. However, after continuing to build upon the Wiki, I eventually realized the value of it. I found myself referring to websites on the Wiki for my students to utilize, retrieving information I needed for other classes, and using lesson plans and projects I had previously created. In the end, I believe that the Wiki has a crucial purpose in my classroom and in this master's program.

What advice do you have for others who intend to pursue the add-on and who hope to work with second language learners in the future?

I have talked to a few people in the past who have expressed interest in working with ESL students. I always encourage them to do it, and I enjoy sharing my personal experiences. As long as I knew the person had a heart for students and teaching, I would encourage anyone to seek the add-on licensure.