After attending the first class, we learned that there are six language arts: reading, writing, talking, listening, viewing, and visually representing. I found these surprising at first because if someone asked me about language arts, I would assume that there were two types: reading and writing. However, after thinking about this, all six make perfect sense. I found it interesting that the six include talking and listening. These are often neglected in schools, but are so important. Without good talking and listening skills, students are not able to communicate well. I feel that the reason I would forget to include viewing and visually representing on my list is that these weren't a big part of language arts when I was in school. Digital media was not used as often as it is now. However, because technology is rapidly expanding and is a part of children's daily lives, I think it should definitely be included on the list of language arts. By adding these to the list, we are not merely condoning all of the digital and media influences on children's lives, but instead taking the technology that children have at their disposal and teaching them to use it in a responsible and positive way.
When I was in elementary school, reading and writing are the main things that stand out. However, I do remember my teachers reading aloud stories for us to aesthetically listen. I do not remember talking, viewing, or visually representing being a focus. We were constantly tested on reading comprehension and writing abilities, so I feel that these stand out as the most important. I always enjoyed reading more than writing when I was in elementary school and still do today; I do not see that changing.
I loved listening to Sahara Special. Based on my time in public schools, I have seen that same student sitting out in the hallway. I can also relate to Sahara's mother. In one of my child development classes we discussed relationships with parents and the school, and how it is so important to let parent's know they are their child's first educator and to make them involved in decision-making, but this does not always happen. I think Sahara's love for writing at home will help her succeed in school.
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Digital media is becoming more and more prevalent in today's schools. Students crave this type of learning and I think it will be beneficial for all parties involved to use them. Also, I totally agree with this statement from your post; "it is so important to let parent's know they are their child's first educator and to make them involved in decision-making". Keep this at the forefront of your thinking and planning and your job as an educator will be better for it!
ReplyDeleteI also loved what you said “how it is so important to let parents know they are their child's first educator and to make them involved in decision-making”. I believe that now a days it is becoming more common for both guardians to be in full or part time jobs. This means that time is not always available and that sometimes babysitters, grandparents, or nannies will be making decisions. It is important as a teacher to keep the guardians where the child lives informed of everything that the child is doing and learning in class. It is important that the parents not feel guilty for not being able to be there to make a decision if they are at work. As a future teacher I have realized that not every child will be coming from a loving home with two parents who are still married. It is important to understand and still get across parents must stay involvement in their child’s life if it is only for a short time each day.
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