A teacher must understand the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the disciplines taught and be able to create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students.
Here is a link to my test results for the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Exams
Here is the link to the courses I have taken and the grades that I received.
Description of Artifacts
Artifact 1: MTLE Scores
The Minnesota Teacher Licensure Exams (MTLE) are required to obtain a teaching license in Minnesota. There are 8 exams: 3 basic skills tests, 3 content tests and 2 Pedagogy tests. I passed all 8 exams prior to student teaching. |
Artifact 2: DARS Report
The Interactive Degree Audit Report (DARS) representing the second Artifact, is a cumulative report from my college experiences. As a non-traditional student, I went back to school at 34 years old. I have passed all the courses needed to get a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Winona State University, with a 4.0 every semester. My determination and perseverance to perform well is eminent as an adult learner. This is what drives my dedication to be the best I can be for my students. |
Analysis
Artifact 1: MTLE Scores
Knowing course content is important in teaching. Looking at artifact 1, I have shown that I passed all of the necessary basic skills, content and pedagogy tests required in order to obtain a teaching license in Minnesota. I chose this artifact because these tests are an intricate part in completing the Winona State University Elementary Education Program requirements. These test results show that I am knowledgeable in the necessary teaching areas of content and pedagogy. This, along with my unwavering professionalism forms a well-rounded, educated instructor. |
Artifact 2: DARS Report
Artifact 2 shows the perseverance I have to do well. When I went to college 15 years ago, making sure to graduate, with an Associate's in the Arts Degree, was my only concern. As an adult learner, my high expectations for success surpassed my previous immaturity. I strive to do well at everything I do, and this is reflected in my grades. |
Synthesis
Artifact 1: MTLE Scores
Even though I earned the necessary scores to pass the exams, I have found that with the coursework and hands-on experiences I had during the 2 years at Winona State University-Rochester, my education has grown 10-fold. I feel so much stronger in the content and pedagogy areas of teaching. If I would take those tests at this point in my educational career, I am confident that I would exceed the previous scores. |
Artifact 2: DARS Report
As I look back on my DARS report and focus on the very beginning of my undergraduate education, I see a completely different person than who I see in the mirror today. I am determined, confident and even extremely passionate about my career in teaching. I believe there is a path for all of us and my path is to go back to college and focus on my education with resolve and purpose. I feel that there is always room to learn and grow and I look forward to continuing my education for many years to come. |