I realized we really had a choice, ownership, and voice through authentic assignments during the first class. I was really confused on how it was going to work. I didn’t really understand the point and was uncomfortable because all through school I was given certain parameters and now there weren’t any. I wasn’t sure that I was ready for this, but I learned quickly to explore my options.
I did make a few adjustments in my thinking process while learning. I learned to keep an open mind and think outside of the box. Knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t have worried about the process so much. I would have jumped in with both feet so to speak. It was exciting to help promote change, but it wasn’t always well received. By promoting new ideas it has helped me expand my thinking and willingness to expand my thinking.
I am teaching pre-k this year, so it is a challenge to implement certain things. We do have to limit their choices and have very specific guidelines per the state. I do give the students a choice of which center they want to go to and they are allowed to choose their own partner on Fridays because during the week we have a structured way of doing this.
Using COVA is a good approach to learning. I have incorporated it as much as possible in the pre-k environment. The students are only four years old, so they need structure. This is the first time they have been to school and need a limited amount of choices.
