Module 1

Summary

In chapter 1, Woolfolk addressed the topic of effective teaching. On page 5, Woolfolk stated...," Teachers with a high sense of efficacy work harder and persist longer even when students are difficult to teach, in part because these teachers believe in themselves and in their students. Also, they are less likely to experience burnout and are more likely satisfied with their jobs". According to Woolfolk, teachers who have a high sense of success not only work harder but enjoy actually enjoy their job and avoid experiencing burnout. In all, this what really helps a teacher become more effective even if they encounter students who are difficult to teach. 

Reflection

I thought it was interesting when Woolfolk deliberated how teachers with a high sense of efficacy work harder and persist longer even when students are difficult to teach. From previous field experience, I noticed that some teachers with a low sense of success work poorly with their students and even have trouble teaching students who struggle more. I also noticed that teachers who do not have a high sense of competence and simply go through the motions. Additionally, I was also fascinated that teachers who have a higher sense of competency do not experience burnout. Before reading this chapter, I thought that every teacher experiences burnout. Now I understand that teachers who are more susceptible to burnout have a low sense of success. 

As a future educator, I will strive to have a high sense of effectiveness to promote a profound educational experience for each of my students. With that in mind, in order for that to work, I have to believe in myself and believe in each one of my students. I have experienced so many teachers who showed little care and made students' lives miserable. All in all, I want to grow strong relationships and help my students succeed. In order for this to be possible, I have to believe in myself and most importantly I have to believe in each one of my students. 

Summary

In chapter 2, Woolfolk describes the topic of human development. On page 32, Woolfolk states..., " The term development in its most psychological sense refers to certain changes that occur in human beings (or animals) between conception and death. The term is not applied to all changes, but rather those that appear in orderly ways and remain for a reasonably long period of time." Because development occurs over a long period of time an illness would not be considered part of human development. Woolfolk also said on page 32,... " Human development can be divided into a number of different aspects. Physical development, as you might guess, deals with changes in the body. Personal development is the term generally used for changes in an individual's identity and personality. Social development refers to changes in the way an individual relates to others. And cognitive development refers to changes in thinking, reasoning, and decision making." As you can see there are several distinct aspects of human development that happen over a long period of time. 

Reflection

I thought it was interesting how Woolfolk discussed different aspects of human development, which happen over a long period of time. The different aspects include physical development, personal development, social development, and cognitive development. From personal experience, I have seen students' human development growth from person to person. For example, I have come across several students whose cognitive development is advanced while other students' cognitive ability is not so advanced. 

As a future educator, it is important to note these different aspects of human development amongst your students. I think if you are aware of these different developments you will be able to help and understand your students achieve more sustainable goals. 

Summary

In chapter 3, Woolfolk discussed the importance of physical activity. On page 77, Woolfolk stated..., " physical activity and participation in athletics have benefits for all students' health, well-being, leadership skills, social relationships, brain development, and even learning". Because most of today's children do not get sufficient physical activity in their daily lives, schools have to promote physical education. Woolfolk also said page 77,... " Other researchers note that students in Asian countries, who consistently outperform U.S. students on international reading, science, mathematics tests, have more frequent recess breaks throughout the school day". Physical activity is not only vital for one's well being, but it can also have a huge impact on a student's educational performance. 

Reflection

Before reading this chapter, I was fully aware that physical activity plays a vital role in student efficacy. I also knew that physical activity promotes several benefits. This is one of my motives for becoming a physical education instructor. I want to be able to share with my future students how important physical education class really is. I know from experience that a lot of students have animosity towards physical education class. I have witnessed students just going through the motion in p.e class because they find exercising to be tedious. 

As a student, I have benefited so much from physical activity, whether that's going on a run, lifting weights, and even being a part of a club or a team that consists of physical activity regularly. For example, last semester I would work out before my classes, and I would feel more alert and be more involved in class discussions. The list of benefits can go on and on, but I personally think that physical education is one of the most important core subjects, especially, in early childhood development.