Entry 4-1 | Professional Learning and Ethical Practices

The candidate engages in ongoing professional learning and uses evidence to

continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the effects of his/her choices and
actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community), and
adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.

The candidate should complete a reflective essay demonstrating how they can develop
professionally based on situations from their student internship. Three artifacts
detailing these relationships and activities should be included.

Teachers have a major impact on the growth and development of their students, so it is
very important that the teacher continually reviews his or her actions and approach to
ensure that they are creating the maximum amount of good in their community and for
their students. In this way, the teacher can either confirm or correct their methods as
necessary and in doing so, really contribute to the success of their school and students.

My experience as an intern has been a good opportunity for me to evaluate my strengths

and identify areas to focus my attention on moving forward. Development of my skill as an
accompanist and expansion of my applied understanding of music theory are at the top of
my list. Rehearsal and performance-wise, I realize that so much leadership can take place
from the piano if the teacher is proficient enough to utilize the instrument effectively as a
tool. Also, in secondary ensemble settings much of my teaching is affective, and focused on
vocal production and expression. It is good feedback, but misses the functional aspects of
music composition. With the development of my skill in musical analysis, my approach to
music-learning will expand and I will find far more ways that I can support my students
development -- especially my more advanced students. Currently, I am pretty effective with
new singers, but I find that I have less to offer more seasoned ones (aside from technically).
All of this is in addition to the typical new teacher skills to be developed in regard to pacing
and behavior management.

Artifacts
● Link to Swivl video with comments
○ The first video below is of an early rehearsal with Concert Choir over “And
Sweet Singing in the Choir” arranged by Douglas E. Wagner. Through Swivl, I
can comment on my videos for future reference and for sharing. I’ve found
the option to be a really effective way to plan for upcoming rehearsals. On
this video, you’ll see feedback focused on getting the women in Concert Choir
to sing out which for much of the semester has been a challenge.
■ Swivl Feedback - Concert Choir SA sectional

○ The second video below is of an LB rehearsal earlier on in the semester. The

focus of the rehearsal is on the song, “Gaudeamus Hodie” by Earlene Rentz.
■ Swivl Feedback - LB

● LP Reflection
○ This lesson plan reflection was written immediately after an observation
with Dr. Payne. It reflects challenges how I felt during the lesson, how the
students sounded, where we did well, where we can improve, and strategies
moving forward.
○ Post-Observation LP Reflection