Modules 2 3 4 TD Discussions

TD Discussions

Module 2

Thanks to transformative learning, I have been receptive of new factual points of view, even in those instances where my deeper convictions are questioned. It is this ability to be formless as far as my acquisition of knowledge is concerned that has enabled me to grasp useful concepts critical to my success. From early on, I also elected to drop all the perspectives I had that were no longer serving me. This is consistent with Gould’s assertion (as cited in Kroth and Cranton, 2014) to the effect that our assumptions early on in life regarding ourselves do incur revisions as we move along – especially when we realize that those assumptions no longer serve us.

For students, the relevance of deforming prior perceptions cannot be overstated. It is important to note that as Kroth and Cranton (2014) point out, “meaning perspectives are usually uncritically assimilated in childhood” (p. 58). Students ought to make use of critical thinking as well as reasoning skills to interrogate their perspective on issues, and the make the relevant adjustment if earlier beliefs are questioned. As an educator, in addition to being constructionist, I will likely promote the utilization of prior understanding of issues to define and analyze new meanings, and then encourage interpretive revisions that are likely to direct future undertakings.

Module 3

In the words of Demkin (2008), “professional societies are composed of individuals or members who have acquired knowledge and experience that qualifies them as specialists in performing particular services” (p 15). The relevance of participating in professional organizations cannot be overstated. This is particularly the case when it comes to the opportunities for professional development. Quite a number of organizations offer publications, courses, and even organize workshops for their members – a move that helps the said members to stay up to date with developments in their fields of study. In my field, Norton (2008) observes that some of the benefits to membership in professional organizations include, but they are not limited to, participation in meaningful education travel programs, as well as engagement in continuing in-service training undertakings. Professional organizations also come in handy in networking. Mingling with other professionals is of great relevance in issues to do with career progression. Currently, I am in human resource management but I intend to fully switch to education administration. Examples of professional organizations in this field include, but they are not limited to, the American Association of School Administrators, American Educational Research Association, National School Boards Association, etc. (Dyrli, 2013). These are the very same professional organizations I will be seeking to join - specifically the American Association of School Administrators. I could also join other professional organizations, i.e. management and leadership professional bodies, so as to further sharpen my leadership skills.

Module 4

My educational experience at Trident has given me confidence to address any problems that may arise in the course of executing my duties as an education administrator. It has also sharpened my critical thinking abilities. I am now able to assess situations from various perspectives so as to develop rational solutions to various concerns. Thanks to Trident, I am also more skilled in the use of information systems to facilitate educational activities. I can now participate fully in education policy planning and formulation. The key skills which I have acquired and which I believe will come in handy include the provision of administrative support to the teaching staff, student cycle management, complaints handling, etc. I am of the opinion that as currently constituted, the program sufficiently meets its intended objectives. It fully prepares one to take up challenging situations and gives an individual proper understanding of the education sector.