SBI3C

As a teacher in Ontario, the Ontario College of Teachers (2016) provides me with guidelines to frame my teaching pedagogy and practice, delivered in the form of “Foundations of Professional Practice.” In crafting my lesson plans for this website and any of my teaching, I take into consideration the five domains of the standards of practice for the teaching profession outlined by the college:

1. Commitment to students and student learning

2. Professional knowledge

3. Professional practice

4. Leadership in learning communities

5. Ongoing professional learning

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Commitment to students and student learning

The Ontario College of Teachers highlights the importance of “facilitating the development of students as contributing citizens of Canadian society” (2016, p. 13). In the lesson “Diseases, Treatment, and Career Exploration,” students use their scientific investigation skills to research, learn, and become experts on a specific circulatory system disease. Students will develop 21st century skills as they practice problem solving, collaboration and critical thinking to determine which information is relevant to their assignment and presentation. As students explore career options they may become more interested in a certain one and recognize their importance and contribution to society.

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Professional knowledge

As a professional educator, I am committed to ongoing professional learning throughout my teaching practice and career. I will improve my practice and enhance my learning by staying current and up to date in various ways through professional needs, interests and inspirations, as outlined by the college (2016). Within my lessons, I was sure to incorporate various teaching strategies I have learned over my two years as a teacher candidate. I made sure my lessons were engaging and structured for diverse learners with differentiated instruction strategies in order to meet the needs of all students. By keeping up to date, I will continue to adapt and modify my lessons and teaching strategies to enhance student learning.

 

Professional practice

I will continue to apply my professional knowledge and experience to promote student learning in engaging ways. In my lessons, I used a variety of pedagogy, assessment and evaluation tools, resources and technology to maximize learning within the classroom and to meet each individual need as best I can. Some examples include: a quiz, labs, interactive activities/simulations/games, discussions, think-pair-share, worksheet, lab report, videos, computer labs, and presentations. As the college (2016) highlights, inquiry, dialogue and reflection will be an ongoing practice throughout my journey as an educator.

 

Leadership in learning communities

The Ontario College of Teachers emphasizes, “promoting and participating in the creation of collaborative, safe and supportive learning communities” (2016, p. 13). Throughout my lessons, there are lots of opportunities for group discussions. I believe this is effective for student learning as they share and express their thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As an educator, it is my duty to ensure student success therefore group discussions allow for opportunities to recognize strengths and weaknesses that I can work to modify and adapt within my lessons.

 

Ongoing professional learning  

I am committed to ongoing professional learning, as this is integral to effective practice and student learning. Each day provides new opportunities to learn and reflect on my teaching practice. I will continue to experience, research and collaborate my ideas and knowledge with colleagues to better my professional practice.

 

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Reference:

Ontario College of Teachers. (2016). Foundations of Professional Practice. Retrieved from http://www.oct.ca/-/media/PDF/Foundations%20of%20Professional%20Practice/Foundation_e.pdf

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