EDU 3410 Field Experience Reflection

Fall 2016
Shontaire Butler
My field experience this semester was one of the best parts of the class. Due to time
constraints ad schedules, I chose to use 3 classes for my field hours (Two Second Grade classes
and a Fifth grade class). I chose Miss Wenglers second grade class at Hilburn Academy as the
focus class for my activities. I had done prior field experiences and had a connection with her
and the school . Her approach to teaching is non-traditional and relationship-based which falls
more in line with what I think my teaching style would be. Having worked at Hilburn Academy
from 2007-2010, I knew this class would provide me with what I would need for the EDU 3410
Field Experience Packet.
The learning environment of this class is more laid back and the students are very
diverse. As they have bouncy balls as chairs and have a CCR teacher push in once a week, the
students in this class have a variety of needs. With 4 ELL students and 3 IEPs, the teacher has to
use differentiated instruction all the time. While observing the room setup and the resources
used, technology play a huge role in the class. The smartboard is a staple and the use of the
Imagine Station (Computer Lab) and the individual tablets allow the student to develop 21st
Century Skills. The teacher does skype sessions with speakers as well as in person guest
speakers as to present the information in an engaging manner. The literacy centers are
throughout the room with the main reading center having clearly labeled genres of literature.
The students also have their individual book baskets at their desk when they do silent or partner
reading. The room has anchor charts and word walls that reinforce literacy everyday.
This class was the first class where I taught lessons. They students responded well and
seemed excited to see me even when I gave them an assessment. Learning the students names

and giving them feedback was an experience that was fulfilling and reinforcing. The school is a
STEAM school which is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering,
the Arts and Mathematics. The students have the advantage of having a focus on project-based
learning which develops the critical Cs: Collaboration, Cooperation and Communication. This
field experience showed these strategies as I witnessed teams of teachers as well as students
work toward common goals.