Reflective Journal
The artifact that I am showcasing is my Curriculum Mapping project completed for EDU 532: Principles of Curriculum Design. Through the completion of this assignment, I have demonstrated improvement in practice, mastery of program competencies, and had a direct impact on student learning.
Reflection
The Curriculum Mapping project provided me experience in designing a plan for my class while keeping in mind the diversity of learners. I knew that a curriculum map needed to address different intelligences by including a variety of activities and assessments. With a “big picture” plan, I was able to ensure that differentiation was present while still reaching the goals and objectives of the unit. By designing my map backwards, I was able to make and modify learning experiences to fit the requirements of the assessment, which corresponded with the state standards. Concepts in science can be difficult to understand through reading and lecture alone so I wanted to ensure that my plan included many hands-on activities. These hands-on activities would provide students with alternative views on the topic, which in turn, would encourage understanding among more students.
I have learned the importance of taking the time to develop a curriculum map for each class and unit. It provides structure to the classes and helps to ensure that standards have been met. Even though I like to change my plans often as new ideas arise, the plan allows for that as it is as flexible as what the teacher allows. I have also learned a great deal about working backwards as I develop a curriculum map. Working backwards keeps the focus on the assessment and objectives of the course. It also helps to ensure that what is being taught in activities reflects what the students will be assessed on. With the wide array of information available, it is important to pin point (with the help of state standards) exactly what concepts the students should know as they continue through the course and further education.
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