6.2 Engage in professional learning and improve practice
Understand the relevant and appropriate sources of professional learning for teachers.
6.3 Engage with colleagues and improve practice
Seek and apply constructive feedback from supervisors and teachers to improve teaching practices.
While on placement in term two of the school year, I was privileged to attend all staff meetings and attend all personal development. During this time the staff meetings were often used to further the teacher’s knowledge in the new version of the Australian Curriculum. One meeting was based on the professional development and understanding surrounding the topic of consisted mental health and wellbeing for both the students/parent but also the teachers. They were provided with relevant and appropriate sources of professional learning. (APST 6.2) In addition additionally resource website and locations were provided to help those seek additional supports. After each staff meeting, I would further research the information given and use this to improve my knowledge and practice. I believe that through continuous professional learning, I have improved my practices within the classroom, with the students, families and with the community.
Throughout the duration of my placement I was able to engage in a wide range of discussions, observations and meetings with colleagues, such as my mento teacher, mentor teacher, the other prep teachers, a range of other early years teachers, relief teachers and covers. (APST 6.3) Through written recordings I was able to keep this feedback to reflect on. In addition, my mentor teacher and some of the cover teachers were able to provide me with written feedback on my lessons, teaching practices and where to seek further learning opportunities to further my own personal learning. The written feedback was used to provide me with a record of what I was doing well, what needs improvement and suggested new steps. (NSW Government, 2021)
I used this feedback to further my own development, by reading and implementing the changes suggested such as using the class behaviour flow chart, elaborating more on the topic, ensuring to include more questioning and discussion and be mindful of time at the end of the lesson. (K. Barron, personal communication, 2023) Upon receiving this feedback I began to implement changes that would correct these suggestions. I started by ensuring I understood the class behaviour flow chart and implemented this correctly as well as ensuring I was rewarding the positive behaviours. I added further questioning and discussions to each lesson while ensuring I had a clock insight to stay on time and allocated enough for the topic. However, as the placement progressed the feedback become more positive, and it indicated that I took on the constructive feedback and began improving my own practices.
To continue the development of improving progress I began to research personal development that would support me the best. I came across a variety of websites, webinars, face to face courses and conferences, each unique and supportive in their own way.
