QLK 520 key takeaways for 23/11/12

3 things i learnt from the video
2 things to practice in future
1 thing that struck me most

There are all kinds of students, so we need to be observant and know our students well in order to be able to react in the correct manner.
We must be firm with our students. Can be friendly but firm.
In a class when students ostracize someone else, there needs to be intervention by the teacher. Set down ground rules and get students to respond. Students with Asperger's syndrome need structure and rules to conform.

Reflections on QLK 520 course

Reflections

I have attended all classes using the F2F format so I will be unable to comment on how effective the blended aspects worked in combining the elements of this course. However, I do feel that attending the course face-to-face has its advantages. For example, we are able to get immediate feedback and hence correct what we are doing to make sure that we are on the right track. I feel that this mode of learning enables me to learn most effectively as I need timely constructive feedback.

For the very first module, we underwent pronunciation training. I corrected some of my commonly mispronounced words through the use of the phonetic alphabet. However, I felt that this module was not covered in sufficient detail. It is impossible to learn the phonetic alphabet in just 2 short lessons. Without learning that, we will be unable to deduce the correct pronunciation for words that we might come across in future. Knowing the correct pronunciation is vital for us as teachers. Firstly, it ensures that we are teaching students the correct thing. Furthermore, it also helps increase the self-confidence of teachers when we know the correct pronunciation of a certain word. Perhaps the main objective of this module was not really to teach us the correct pronunciation but rather to help us better appreciate the subtle nuances that we normally do not take note of (think: three versus tree).

The Oral Communication module helped to gain greater confidence to stand in front of a class and deliver a rehearsed speech. I have always been nervous in front of an audience, but as teachers we have to stand in front of a class every single day to deliver our lesson. I must therefore overcome my jitters because I cannot possibly deliver my lesson content effectively if I am nervous about public speaking.

In Voice Production and Vocal Health, I learnt about the proper voice projection techniques, breathing techniques and how to take care of my voice. As teachers, our voice is very important to us. Needless to say, it is therefore essential that we take good care of it. During my ESE, I taught just 1 class and I could already feel the strain on my voice. Thus, using the techniques taught in the videos like diaphragmatic breathing to enable voice projection will help lessen the strain. Furthermore, if my throat feels dry and itchy, I should not cough to clear my throat. These are all useful tid-bits of information that will help me during my teaching career.

We learnt about proper email etiquette under the Written Communication module. I am certain that I will need to send numerous emails to my Principal, HOD or to parents throughout my teaching career. It is therefore paramount for me to learn the proper way to do so in order that I do not offend these people by not observing the proper etiquette. It will also reflect poorly on me as a teaching professional if I do not know these things too.

In conclusion, I feel that all the modules serve as a rather comprehensive guide on the do’s and don’ts of my future workplace. The things taught are very practical and can be actively practiced in the workplace.