The Possibilities Are Endless!

   It is my 4th year at Brock University in a Con-Current Education stream majoring in Mathematics for Intermediate/Senior teaching.  Through out my journey I have learned more concepts than I could have ever thought imaginable.  I can derive mathematical equations to find rates of change on specific tasks, such as throwing a ball.  I can create matrix equations to find solutions to multiple equations at a time.  I can even create computer based dynamical systems to model any situation in the universe.  However, one question continues to pick away at my brain and that is, "Can I teach?"  

   There are thousands of concerns and more questions that arise from that simple idea of can I actually teach someone else new concepts.  What if they don't understand it the way I teach it?  What if they aren't engaged or just don't care about my teaching?  I could go on about the concerns I have when it comes to teaching.

   For the first time in university, I have actually begun the process of creating my own version of a curriculum and a way to teach it to students.  The test is finally out there of whether or not my knowledge can be passed down to learning students.  Whether or not I am capable of inspiring them to want to learn further as I have chosen to.  This group project has opened my eyes to the capabilities we as future teachers have.  The idea of combining subjects together to find similarities and bridge the gap between them so students can explore the many relationships our world has within itself or teaching through exploration and allowing students to find discoveries.  Even the background knowledge required to be able to create a lesson that is both informative and interesting for students.  All of these ideas are being discussed in my group and they are all new and beneficial ways students can learn.

   I think my worry of, "Can I teach," is an extreme thought and I should take a step back and re-evaluate myself.  I have the knowledge, the passion, the creativity and inspiration to be a great teacher.  Nothing is holding myself back and this blended curriculum project is allowing me to see that the possibilities are endless.  Teaching is a tough job, but it does not have to be.  If I allow myself the freedom to be the great teacher I know I can be, then I am sure success is just a step away.  I need to take the extra steps towards the unknown.  Failure is just a word, but the lessons that come from it are invaluable.  I leave my post this week with an inspiring metaphor.

"By striving to do the impossible, man has always achieved what is possible. Those who have cautiously done no more than they believed possible have never taken a single step forward."

Mikhail Bakunin

MG