I, along with two other recent graduates from Faculty of Education programs in Canada, had the pleasure of speaking with Stephen Hurley of the Canadian Education Council about our teaching aspirations.

During the interview for his podcast series "Teaching Out Loud", Stephen asked a number of important questions that helped to better define my own educational philosophies. I appreciated the opportunity to share my passion for education, and further learned through the perspectives of my fellow teacher candidates. In a way, it provided me a window into the "interview process", knowing we will all be asked the same questions, but given our varying backgrounds and wordly experiences, our thoughts and opinions will be diverse -- much like those in our classroom!

Something to consider for your own teaching practice...

1. What is the most important quality that you believe a teacher needs in order to be effective in the 21^st century classroom?
   
   
2. What is it that attracts you most to the life of the teacher?
   
   
3. What is one idea or disposition towards teaching that has changed as the result of your practicum experiences?
   
   
4. What do you find about the profession that most resonates with your personality? What about you fits?
   
   
5. What is the aspect of work as a teacher that you think will challenge you the most?
   
   
6. If you were given the opportunity to design an inspirational poster to hang in your room and remind you of your vision of teaching, what words or phrases be included?
   
   
7. If you were to use a word or phrase to describe your most influential teacher what would it be?
   
   
8. What about your future life as a teacher causes you a little bit of apprehension?
   
   
9. What excites you most about your future life as teacher?

LISTEN to Starting Points: Conversations with Beginning Teachers

A topic that is surrounded by much debate in schools today -- social media.

Teachers and administrators consider its relevance in classrooms, and question whether young students should receive an "online education" or make use of the technologies available in the 21st century.

Video Response 1: The Importance of the "Social Media Revolution"

In response, while many may better understand the relevance of social media in the 21st century, they may still struggle to connect its potential to the classsroom. Or simply, have no idea where to start. The implementation of the new and unfamiliar is often paired with apprehension and concern.

Questions arise -- "how can I effectively teach using digital tools?"

Video Response 2: How to Teach in the 21st Century

With a list of resources and perhaps a lesson or two on 2.0 web tools, one may still wonder what learning might "look" like in the 21st century classroom. HOW will students be using these technologies? Will an "online education" increase their engagement and support their learning?

Video Response 3: A Vision for Technology in the Classroom

Challenge yourself -- choose one to implement in the upcoming year! Let it be the stepping stone to many more exciting endeavours in your 21st century classroom.

“Teaching children is an accomplishment...getting children excited about learning is an achievement.”

-- Robert John Meehan