Reading Reflection #2

While reading this chapter on "Creating a Professional Learning Community" I couldn't help but notice how much we overlook using the connections we have outside of the classroom. We look at texts and the internet but little do we know, a few cities or countries over, something spectacular could be happening and we are sitting here trying to use what we already know. We, as future teachers need to take initiative of each and every opportunity that is out there. Even when our communities resources are low we can find something to advance our learning, just as Elise Mueller did. She and her co-workers were provided with a new piece of technology and had to integrate them into their subjects. They relied on one another to help navigate and use the technology. They would simply meet up after school and share what they had their classrooms do- this did not cost them a dime. I really appreciated that this chapter was very informative on giving us sites and ideas to use to start up a useful community. I agree with a lot of these teachers when they complained about having to be "alone" your first year. It's going to be refreshing and exciting to be on my own but I'm also going to be scared out of my mind. With the help and guidance of a team who is on your side you have the opportunity to create a learning environment without being overwhelmed. It won't take 3 years to "get on your feet," you have the tools to start out the right way.