Dispositions Reflection

This is my final reflection for my professional dispositions as a pre-service teacher, and I feel as if I have improved so much over the past 16 weeks. The two dispositions I feel the most comfortable with are “commitment to profession,” and “desire to improve own performance.” I think both of these dispositions complement each other nicely, and I think that my high sense of confidence in these areas will help me overcome any future career challenges.

I love all types of art so deeply, and am never satisfied sticking with just one medium or technique. Students enjoy my ability to answer art questions, and also enjoy that I am constantly trying to find new and innovative methods of artmaking to introduce to them. I aim to attend more regional and national conferences, which will give me even more ideas. It also allows me to work with a large group of my professional peers, and hear new perspectives. I know that I can always improve and grow, as long as I value the desire to do so.

As for one disposition I need to focus on, it would be “Cultural Responsiveness.” I highly value and tried my best to support this standard in all of my teaching placements, but I think that I just need more experience with helping students of different backgrounds, so I can learn how to better serve them and their families in each situation. I have had placements with a majority of English speaking students, and know that Colorado has such a large population that needs access to education in Spanish. I want to make sure that I am anticipating for these student populations ahead of time, rather than only reacting to situations as they arise.

All of these professional dispositions will support me by giving a tangible checklist of places I can feel pride, and places I can improve in my teaching career. I know teaching is not limited to this list, but I appreciate having to consider aspects that I might not feel like I excel in quite yet. I think that improvement should be a lifelong goal, not a short-term one. As long as I am teaching— I will be pushing myself and challenging preconceived notions about education, and improving my communication skills with all stakeholders. I will also keep reflecting on my efforts and growth so I have a way to assess myself, not just my students.