The UVIC teacher competencies are an essential part of EDCI 330 as they are the guidelines that we are to adhere to during practicum and at all times in our journey to becoming educators. While each competency is important in its own right for this post, I want to engage with competency number seven, “practice working collaboratively and collegially as well as independently” This competency is very prominent in year three of the EKTEP program, as almost every course features extensive group work and collaboration. Furthermore, teacher candidates are collaborating with practicum teachers, advisors, and their students to try to get the most out of their field experience. But this raises the question: what are the benefits of collaborative work in teacher education?
Collaboration, in my experience thus far, deepens professional thinking. working with peers creates opportunities to engage with multiple perspectives, teaching styles and problem-solving approaches that one may not encounter working independently. For example, in group planning or discussion, I am often challenged by my peers to justify my thinking and pedagogical choices, clarify my reasoning and consider some of my own assumptions. Therefore, the process of collaboration also strengthens reflective practice. Allowing individuals to move beyond simply completing tasks and toward developing ideas that contribute towards the profession.
Collaboration in class and with other teachers in the program also mirrors the teaching profession. Teaching is rarely an isolated practice. It involves working with dozens of different people: colleagues, support staff, administration, families, community members, and, most importantly, students. Developing soft skills in the program, such as communication, flexibility, and the ability to receive constructive criticism, will prepare education students for the real world. While having a strong vision and being competent in one’s own teaching remain essential, “it takes a village,” and working collaboratively and collegially will ultimately better support my education and the education of my future students.
Connor,
Thank you for this post and how you articulate the notion of collaboration.
I appreciate how you viewed collaboration as a stepping stone or a scaffolding of learning . You mention that ‘the process of collaboration also strengthens reflective practice’ , hence ‘[a]lowing individuals to move beyond simply completing tasks and toward developing ideas that contribute towards the profession.’ This is a hopeful statement. Creating a sound ethos of collaboration is key. In your teaching practice, you may find at times having to navigate situations where the outcome is not what was intended. Again, reflect (use a thinking model ) and move on…
As you delve further into teaching and learning, do find those ‘critical friends’, the ones who will challenge you and your thinking whilst contributing to the path of the ‘what if’ and ‘what next’ thinking.
Cheers,
Judi