Service Learning Project Nicole Manning ECE 175

School/Program:  I did my mentoring in the Susquehanna Valley School district, in Donnelly Elementary school.  I was in Mrs. Vitovsky’s first grade classroom.  This opportunity was a very good one in which I have learned a lot from.

My Tasks in the Classroom:  During my time in the classroom, it was my job to help a certain student, child D.B. I helped him with his school work a lot of the time because he was really struggling with some of the work. He did not move at a fast pace like some of the other children so we had to take it slow in order to complete the work. I also helped him with creative projects as well. While we worked we had good conversation and I have made a special bond with this student while working with him and learning more and more about him each time.

What Did I Learn and Gain Socially and Emotionally?  This experience in mentoring taught me a lot about myself and others. I learned that it is so important to make connections with the students you are working with to form a sense of trust. Also, I learned that conversations are key. You can learn so much about a child by simply having a conversation with them. Children need strong relationships in their lives both with peers and trusting adults, it was nice to be able to be a part of this child's life and help him in any way I could.

New Teaching Knowledge/Skills I Have Learned:  During this experience, I learned how important it is to consider each child as an individual in the classroom. Each child has their own pace and way of learning. Some children take longer than others to complete an assignment. It is important to realize that not every child can get through work as quickly as others and as a teacher you need to support this child with completing their work successfully and keeping them on track. It is also important to keep things fun and exciting.

Course and Program Learning Outcomes:  I believe that Program Learning Outcomes #2, #3 and #10 relate to this project. It states, “Apply child development knowledge in evaluating young children’s development and planning curriculum.”  I chose this learning outcome because we had to help the child feel better about themselves and provide a social and emotional relationship. We watched them grow these 10 weeks and how they have improved. We were told to bring fun things to do with the child and that is a mini step towards curriculum planning.