Sunday, 28 September 2014

REFLECTIVE JOURNAL - 14 - CRITICAL REASONS BEHIND LESSON PLANNING.

When I first thought about having to do a Lesson Plan, my reaction was mixed. I felt that it was too technical in some regards, however, I believe it is a necessity. Before I even knew the term "Lesson Plan" existed, I was in the habit of drafting Lesson Plans (even though it was not in accordance with the proper criteria). My mixed feelings stemmed from having to learn to do it the correct way after years of comfortably "doing my own thing."

It is often said that Lesson Planning is a critical skill to acquire in a teaching degree, and I am in full agreement with this statement. However, because of the detail it requires, I view it as impractical for a teacher to do a Lesson Plan for every single lesson, especially for those at the Primary and ECCE levels.

I have heard my peers say that the only time teachers ever use Lesson Plans is at training college, however, because of my personal practices, I know this statement is untrue. At the same time, I believe it would be fair to say that most teachers do not make use of Lesson Plans.

In visiting and working in schools, I noticed that effective teachers were those who had a clear plan of action before they entered the classroom. They were better able to deal with unplanned occurrences as well.

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

REFLECTIVE JOURNAL - 13 - THE SYLLABUS AS A PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL DOCUMENT.

The availability of a syllabus is beneficial to both instructors and students. This document aids a teacher's preparation as well as assist in lesson delivery and assessment criteria.

A syllabus is a tool which may make both teachers and students more accountable in their approach to the teaching and learning process. In this regard, it can be seen as a contract.

Additionally, a syllabus offers a measure of transparency, in that, if well designed, it would be self explanatory.

The syllabus may also be considered as a reflective exercise where a lecturer has the option to adjust a schedule or topics, based on feedback or experiences from the preceding program.

These are some of the reasons a syllabus is considered to be a professional and a personal document.