Reflection

Spring Break has been a time of reflection for me as I look ahead to the next two months of classes, papers, and tests. A time to assess where I have succeeded and where I am falling short. Unfortunately the "grade" is not always indicative of the learning or knowledge; however, how else does one measure knowledge gained in this world of academia if it isn't through a "grade." 

As a student it can be discouraging to feel you have knowledge and understanding of the material and yet you fall short of the grade required. I loved the article on Reflection and Articulated Learning. During this week of reflection and trying to get caught up and possibly ahead, I found it to be a great source of encouragement not only in our project work but  also in my other classes. I looked at what I have gained in knowledge from my struggles and from my successes and how I could apply this concept of articulated learning into my everyday life.   

What did I learn?  When I am feeling discouraged about the grade in a class and the fact that it is not a reflection of my true knowledge, I can remind myself what I have learned and what is more important.

How specifically did I learn it?  What are my strengths in studying and gaining insight and knowledge? How can I apply service learning to my other courses and is that possible?

Why does this learning matter?  Knowledge is valuable to me and I believe as we learn and grow through our failures and successes, we become more sensitive and aware of those around us. We are wiling, hopefully, to share our lives with others. 

In what ways will I use this learning or what goals shall I set in place with what I have learned in order to improve myself, the quality of my learning or the quality of my future experiences?

I have this hope that through Project and my involvement with Holly Street that I will be a kinder, more sensitive person who is able to listen and try to understand others and their needs.  I am very excited about the opportunity to grow as an individual through my work at Martin Middle School.  I  am also enjoying the attitude to be able to take a risk and jump into the unknown and begin to recognize therein lies the power to succeed. 

Inspiration for Your Day: "If you aren't willing to try everything and make a mistake then you'll never make anything of yourself." - Sir Richard Branson