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Candice Lamb
Dr. Marian Ellis
EDUC.2301.200
Dec. 2, 2016
Learning by Observing

My observation time was spent in different classrooms at Early Childhood Learning

Center in Sulphur Springs Texas. During my time there I went between several classes due to
meetings and field trips that were scheduled. I was in Mrs. Wilson's kindergarten class, Mrs.
Burnside's kindergarten class and Mrs. Erwins Pre-k classroom. In addition, I had several
interactions with the principal, Mrs. Finney, who went above and beyond to make sure I knew
what was going on at all times and that I was able to complete my learning experience.
All of the teachers there were willing to go the extra mile to help me learn different
aspects of the teaching profession so I can become the better educator. They all made me feel
that I was part of their team which really made my time there enjoyable and helped me gain more
from my experience. One thing that really stood out was all of the teachers I observed had a
natural comfort level in their classrooms and were very welcoming when I went to observe their
classrooms. I can see that it is important to be an inviting teacher where students, parents, and
guest feel comfortable coming into your classroom. An aspect I hadnt given much thought to.
The best way for someone to determine if they really would like to go into a certain
career is to observe and talk to others who already have experience in that field. This is
particularly important for prospective teachers because while we often do not fully comprehend
this as students, teaching is a very challenging job that requires patience, determination, and an
open mind. Each class I was in had such a diverse variety of students, who each had various

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levels of skills, life experiences, and knowledge. Each teacher had different approaches in how to
reach each student. It really showed me how a teacher must be able to meet the needs of each
student. To meet those requirements the educator must be able to inspire students and have a
curriculum that reflects the learning styles of all students. You must be flexible as a teacher to try
new ways to reach different students.
This semester has been a very eye-opening experience! During this semester, I have been
able to experience a wide variety of classroom environments, as a substitute teacher and through
my observation in ECLC. I feel that these experiences have helped me determine whether I am
truly on the right path. I still feel a pull toward Pre-K and kindergarten, which is what I originally
planned to teach, but I now feel like I would be able to handle any level students; whereas, I was
not sure if I could before this semester. It is wonderful to grow not only as a future educator but
as a person through these great opportunities.