Melanie Kubala

Creating a positive learning environment is key to having a successful class. Building rapport/relationships; setting clear expectations; following through with those expectations; and ensuring that safety precautions are used consistently; are all important. 

Many years ago I was a paraprofessional in a preschool classroom. We used PBIS with all students and it definitely helped build relationships and with behavior. I also like to use Restorative Practices. Both have a focus on building relationships with students. When students know you care, and that you see the best in them, there is a bigger motivation to learn.

Mentors are valuable in helping a new CTE teacher understand all of the components of teaching CTE classes. The mentor can also be an advocate for the new CTE teacher and can set up shadowing times with other professionals.

The attire section was eye-opening, but also challenging. I teach CTE classes but I also teach messy art classes. I usually wear clothing that is functional, and sometimes has a bit of paint on it. Usually my CTE classes are all on one day, so I can dress more professionally on those days. But one semester of the year I have both CTE and a messy art class. I'll have to be better at dressing professionally and at the same time, wearing my apron during the messy class.

The section on social media was enlightening as well. Luckily, I deleted… >>>

I learned that CTE originated in the 1800s, which wasn't something that I was previously aware of. I also learned that there are numerous career pathways and career clusters for students to pursue. 

I learned about Gamifying learning as well as Digital Field Trips. I think that the Digital Field Trips will be easier to implement as there are so many websites that offer video experiences/tours/tutorials. Gamifying sounds fascinating to me and I would like to begin with one unit that incorporates that experience for students. Personally, what I remember from high school were the lessons that were fun and engaging. Gamifying will be a good addition to my curriculum.

I learned about the stages of teamwork: Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning. Group work has never been my forte, so this information was helpful. I plan on creating a poster to demonstrate  these stages for students.

I appreciate that the unit expresses the value of teamwork: building rapport, increasing creativity/productivity, and creating trust within the group.

Verbal/Written Communications (I hope I'm posting this comment in the correct place):

I learned ways to teach about verbal and written communication. As a business owner and professional myself, I understand the importance of communicating effectively. 

In my CTE Photography class we create websites. I have students write an "About Me" page. I will take the part about "thinking about your audience" and use it as a prompt when they are writing for this page. For business owners (students), knowing who you are targeting will help guide your writing. If you're desire is to draw in senior portrait clients, the… >>>

I learned new learning techniques to use in class with students to promote critical thinking. Building a Silent Poster, K-W-L, Barometer, and written dialogue. I'm always looking for new ways to present learning opportunities, and I'm grateful for the introduction to the four new techniques.

I also liked that open-mindedness was discussed in this module. Open-mindedness is a great quality to have as an employee, as an employer, as well as in relationships.