Changing and learning

This class has been enlightening for me. After changing my major from Journalism to English and teaching, I was frightened that I would not be inspired. But this class alone has inspired me. I know what I am supposed to be doing, I am supposed to teach. And because of this class, I have so much more passion and vigor for teaching, I am buzzing with anticipation of implementing the concepts I've learned in this class into my own teaching methods. Because of the Internet, we live in an increasingly global community, and I have learned about all the tools I need to ensure my students are integrated into this global community. And I think that's the biggest part of what I have learned in this class. The learners are at the heart of learning, not the teachers. And you'd think that was such a commonplace, Homer Simpson "DOH!" ideal, but it's not. It should be though. I truly believe that this class has taught me so much, not just about integrating technology, because I am part of this web-based generation, but about true learning and true understanding. The way to begin molding brilliant teachers, is to mold brilliant students. We all start out as students. And you can't make good teachers when the teachers teaching you how to teach are ill-informed or uninspired. Teaching is about inspiration. It's about passion. It has to be, for all the obstacles teachers have to face with regards to money, curriculum, administration, community, etc., you have to know, and know in your heart that this isn't just what you want to do, but something you have to do. I have to be a teacher. Because I want to change the world. And how do you even begin such a daunting task such as that? Well, it starts with the future. And students are the future.

As far as what I'd like to learn more about, well, I just want more resources. More outlets. More ways to communicate, collaborate, and create. And it isn't because this class hasn't given me all those things, but because now that I have them, I have an insatiable desire for more. And it's this feeling that I want to instill in the students I'll teach. I want them to always be asking for more.

And to the future students of this class: Come in with an open mind and an open heart. You will learn more than you ever thought about what it takes to be a teacher. This class will be a make-or-break for the faint-hearted and the unsure. Be tenacious and work hard, because this is one of the first steps you'll take to changing the world. And if you don't want to change the world, well, you shouldn't be a teacher.