Saturday, April 26, 2014

Time Well Spent


Time Well Spent

I have learned many things throughout the Masters program here at Walden University. One of the many things that I learned that will stick with me forever is the importance of learning the different learning styles of each individual. Part of being successful in the classroom includes engaging learners and teaching them so that they can learn in ways that is best for them. I learned that there is diversity within diversity and each person is truly an individual.

Secondly, I have learned to self-reflect and look into my own bias and prejudices so that I can be objective. It is important that teachers understand themselves and work through their own issues that may surface inside the classroom. Also, learning about different cultures has become a top priority for me. I realized from taking this course that I really do not know much about other cultures. I think that I owe it to myself, as well as future students to learn about the people who I am surrounded by in the world.

Thirdly, I have learned that I can make a difference in the lives of others. Advocacy is very important, and can be effective at any level. I have acquired a passion for advocacy from taking these courses here at Walden. I now know that I can make a difference in the lives of children and their families within and outside of the classroom. Developing my capstone project has made me realize that there are things that I can do now to make a positive difference. One long term goal that I have is to take every opportunity to make a positive impact on children and families by advocating for their health-and well-being.

I would like to thank Dr. Dartt for all of her wisdom and positive guidance throughout my program here at Walden. I would also like to thank my many classmates for providing me with their insight, knowledge, and ideas. Every one of my classmates has contributed to my professional growth here at Walden. I would like to wish everyone good luck with their future endeavors. It has really been a pleasure.

Sincerely,

Michele Troutman

3 comments:

  1. Michelle,

    Congratulations for your accomplishment! We finally did it ! Among all the teachings from our professors and courses, i also have learned that passion is a strong driver for accomplishments. Just look at us now, here we are graduating from our masters, a goal we started back in 2012. Farewell and best luck in everything you do !

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  2. Michele,
    We have finally made it. It was quite a journey, but we survived and have come out more knowledgeable not only about early childhood in the classroom, but how a whole society can be affected by early childhood. There are many aspects of a community that can contribute to the well-being of children, and we have learned how to collaborate with those groups. Actually we learned how to communicate, respect, and appreciate differences among others. Initially I would have thought we would just learn more about child development in this program, but I have learned so much more about myself and how to be a better person. Thank you for your feedback and support. Good luck to you and keep moving forward in being a voice for children and families.
    Mary Jo

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  3. I sit here at my computer typing out my last blog assignment, thinking about how much we have all grown as early childhood education professionals since this journey started for us 18 months ago, but we did it. I think the biggest thing that I have learned throughout this journey is looking inward at what I believe and think about biases, stereotypes and prejudices. They are all around us whether we believe it or not, but now we all have the tools and resources to deal with them and help children understand them. Good luck in the future and completing your goals.

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