Michelle Hardy

May 22, 2006

My synthesis product shows that I can convey my knowledge of an effective teaching method, constructivism, to those who are experienced teachers that I respect. My synthesis paper did not require many revisions, which made me think that I have become a better writer and can learn on my own in a meaningful way. Since teaching and learning experiences are possible everyday, I think studying about a teaching method and potential lesson for biology students will be of value to me even if I do not formally teach. I know more about how I learn through working on this project. Looking back in history though the progression of ideas by the prominent thinkers for the topic is important for me to see the development of their thinking and the events that may have influenced them. From this, I can learn more about how people learn, cognitive thought, and human nature; which are interesting to me.

I now know that there is a movement towards a method of teaching in the U.S. to help students be more responsible for their own learning. It has been changing slowly from many years now. It is a slow process because people usually teach in the way they were taught. This seems to be the response children have when they grow into adults and become parents as well as when students become teachers. The CCT program can give this process of change a jump-start because the program instructors teach in a different and more effective way compared to the teaching I received when I was at the university for my undergraduate degree. This will permeate through the years until more and more people have been in contact with critical and creative thinkers.

I think that I can have a positive effect on the world around me but I am not sure what that effect will be yet. I am going to go on to study for a PhD in plant biology and I will see where it takes me. My synthesis, practicum, and evaluation are steps that I needed to take before I made this my goal. The evaluation course inspired me to self-evaluate on a regular basis to monitor the implementation of the skills I have learned and work towards my goals. The CCT program gave me the opportunity to collaborate with others so that I could learn more about myself. It was a wonderful experience. I am ready to move to the next step in my life.