Reflection Day One:

What did I learn that increased my understanding of Manaiakalani kaupapa and pedagogy?

I didn't have any idea what 'Manaiakalani' was before today.  I have just moved to Greymouth from Dunedin to take on the position of Year 7&8 at Blaketown school in a long term relief position for 2021.  So it was very imformative to see why such a organisation was established and that this has been a work in process for many years.  I learnt that a group of passionate people decided that all students deserved to learn and be educated in the digital world.  I really liked how the founders took their ideas to whanau to see what would be attainable for them.  Allowing all students to have access to digital learning helps to raise achievement outcomes and motivates our learners to engage with today's curriculum.

What did I learn that could improve my confidence, capability or workflow as a professional?

There was so much content today that I found it rather overwhelming!  I feel that organising my drive with numbered folders would totally make my life easier.  I am returning to teaching after many years and have been thrown into working totally online with my students.  I am enjoying this challenge and can see orgnisation of dives and emails will make the process a lot easier.

What did I learn that could be used with my learners?

I really liked the idea of voice to text and can see how this could be life changing for some of my very reluctant Year 7&8 writers.  Some of my students have a low level of spelling and find themselves not wanting to attempt a writing activity.  

What did I learn that could improve my confidence, capability or workflow in my personal life?

I guess the more organised digitally I am the less time I will be spending in my own time doing these things.  As I gain more knowledge I can see my workflow being easier to manage.  I will be able to complete digital tasks with out having to flit in and out to find information on how to do these tasks.