As I completed each stage of lesson planning, I had to evaluate my overall class population and how to effectively instruct them and utilize their assessments to better support their needs. Afterwards, I had to reflect on what I could have improved upon.

During this course, I had to reflect on how to engage students and apply different UDL strategies to support their academic development. 

As I began my research on how to engage students, I discovered that there were already strategies that provide support for students with learning difficulties. As such, I investigated further on how I would apply these UDL strategies in a classroom. 

Self-reflection is a difficult task since it requires an strict honest evaluation. I had to consider my cultural background and how that affects my pedagogy and philosophy. However, it becomes liberating to visually review my own individuality. 

It goes without saying, but dress and behave appropriately for the role you are playing. Interactions between students and colleagues must be kept professional. As such, there are expectations and guidelines.

I realized that education is not a solo play game. It requires collaboration from both our colleagues and students. Knowledge is not inherited solely through textbook curriculum, but rather through engagement and learning experiences. So we collaborated.  

As I continued my research on educational differences, I realized that the U.S. pedagogy is not universal. For us to approach students and colleagues, we must understand the differing philosophies and cultural backgrounds.

When I first considered becoming a teacher, I had to reflect on what values I would bring to the students. I needed to remember what obstacles I had to overcome as a student. I had to evaluate who I was as a learner.

Through collaboration with other colleagues who were on the same journey, we discussed what inspires us to pursue education. As we communicated, our aspirations were broadened and we became more conscientious of our goals.

During our group collaborations, we had to review and analyze students behaviors and needs. From our observations, we concluded on how to provide the best support for ELLs, students with special needs, and English speakers.