My EPI Journey. by Ernesto Espineira

Why I choose teaching.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 19:05:26 UTC

I chose to become a teacher in Florida because, beyond being an opportunity to restart my professional career in the U.S., it is also connected to my passion for teaching. I have always enjoyed sharing knowledge, helping students grow, and supporting their learning in a way that benefits them as members of society.

After finishing my degree in Administration, I taught high school students in my country as a parallel job. The students were in 10th to 12th grade, and I taught Contemporary History. It was a truly rewarding experience to work with young people at a stage where they were making important decisions for their future. Many of them needed extra knowledge as a tool to help them make the right choices, and I was honored to contribute to that process.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 20:47:52 UTC

For many years, I had the privilege of teaching young people and teenagers in the Seventh-day Adventist Church that I belong to. Although the lessons were based on the Bible, they were designed according to a well-structured methodological plan created by professionals in education. The classes covered all age groups in the church membership.

Teachers were provided with specific materials and resources, including visual aids, books, felt boards, music, and interactive activities. The lessons were designed to engage four types of students:
- The "Why?" learner, who wants to understand the reason behind everything.
- The "What?" learner, who prefers clear facts and structured information.
- The "How?" learner, who learns best through hands-on activities.
- The "What if…?" learner, who enjoys exploring new ideas and experimenting.

This was a very special experience for me as a teacher, as I was able to adapt my lessons to different learning styles and make each class meaningful.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 20:58:10 UTC

Teaching Workers in My Community:
For about four years, I worked at the university in my province, teaching Finance and Economic History to workers in the sugar industry. During that time, many sugar factories closed in my country, causing an economic crisis and leaving thousands of people unemployed. To reduce the impact, the government offered these workers the chance to study instead of working, while still receiving their salaries.

In my town, I taught students in Accounting and Finance as well as Agroindustrial Engineering. It was a challenging experience because many of these workers were my age—or older—and often lacked motivation. Many were studying simply because they had no other choice, so I focused on helping them find purpose in their education.

Years later, I still meet former students who call me "Profe" and greet me with great respect. Their appreciation for the time and dedication I gave them reminds me that teaching is not just about lessons—it is about guiding and supporting others in their journey.

My pass experiences with Technology.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 21:12:37 UTC

My generation in Cuba was not directly exposed to new technologies because it was a time when their massive use was just beginning in developed countries. We mostly knew about them only by reference. However, since I studied my university degree several years after my generation, I was able to learn how to work with computers, the entire Office package, and emails.

When I started working, the companies where I was hired already had computer networks with some internet access, an emerging online banking service for businesses, and different software for accounting, statistics, business plan creation, and budgeting.

Later, when I studied my second degree in pharmacy technology, I had to learn how to interact with different instruments used for measurement, production, and control, which are essential in this type of work that is so important for society's well-being.

My Goals for This Course

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 21:20:12 UTC

My main goal is to become a professional teacher in the United States. Through this course in the EPI Program at MDC College, I aim to gain the necessary knowledge and techniques to perform this role according to state standards.

I want to provide my students with a healthy, stimulating, and supportive educational environment where they feel motivated to learn and grow. I hope to develop effective teaching strategies, improve my communication skills, and learn how to engage students in meaningful learning experiences.

Additionally, I want to understand the U.S. education system, its policies, and best practices to ensure I am fully prepared for my teaching career in Miami-Dade public schools. This course will also help me strengthen my leadership skills, classroom management abilities, and the use of technology to enhance learning.

Ultimately, my goal is to become a dedicated and impactful educator who makes a positive difference in the lives of my students.

Hopes and concerns about integrating technology in the classroom.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 21:37:23 UTC

I have many hopes for technology in the classroom. These tools are new and useful, and they can help students learn better.

Better Student Engagement
Technology makes learning more fun and interactive.
Personalized Learning
Digital programs help each student learn at their own speed.
Access to More Information
Online tools give students many learning resources.
Improving Teamwork
Technology helps students work together, even if they are far away.

In 2023, at a school in Nairobi, Kenya, teacher Aisha Ahmed started a digital learning program with tablets for young students. Before this, many children had problems learning because they had no books. The tablets helped them read and do math. In six months, student performance improved by 30%.

Concerns About Integrating Technology in the Classroom

Technology is helpful, but it can also cause problems. It is important to use it correctly.

Distractions in Class
Phones and computers can take students' attention away from lessons.
Technology Access Problems
Some students do not have computers or internet at home.
Privacy and Security Risks
Schools must protect student information from hackers.
Too Much Dependence on Technology
Students should also learn without using digital tools.

In 2024, at a high school in Texas, USA, teacher Mark Reynolds saw that students depended too much on digital tools for math problems. When they had to solve equations without calculators, many found it difficult. The school decided to mix technology with traditional learning to help students think better.

About MDC Collegue.

ernestoespineira793 — 2025-05-29 21:50:00 UTC