My Professional Dispositions Statement Assessment Reflection
When it comes to my personal professional disposition statement, I would like to think that words such as hard-working, loyal, respectful, trustworthy, and someone with integrity would be involved in that statement. When looking over the Professional Dispositions, which are High Expectations, Respect for the Diversity of others, Fairness, Professional Conduct, Reflection, Curiosity, Honesty, Compassion, Advocacy, and Dedication, I strive to have those be a part of my statement.
When I took the Professional Dispositions Assessment, I noticed that I strongly agreed with a lot of the statements such as the following; 1. I understand that students learn in many different ways, 2. I understand that teachers’ expectations affect student learning, 3. I am punctual and reliable in my attendance, and 4. I maintain a professional appearance. When I look at these four statements along with the others, I feel that I do meet most of the guidelines that are laid out in the Professional Dispositions.
Throughout my program of study at my local college here in my area and at GCU, I feel that I have grown in my professional dispositions because of the knowledge I have gained. Some specific examples would be dedication. When I first decided I wanted to be a teacher when I was about six years old, I thought being a teacher was great. Got holidays and summer off, just had to have fun with the kids. However, as I have gotten older and been more involved in the classroom, the dedication that these men and women have towards not only the schools, and the educational system, but the students is outstanding. I have seen teachers plan on the weekends, stay at the school late, spend their own hard-earned money to help out students so that they can learn a different way that works for them, and being there through all the ups and downs that a student goes through.
Another example would be fairness. Growing up with four brothers, I was always taught to believe that being fair was that we all got the same thing. If one got ice cream, we all got ice cream. However, that is not the case when it comes to education. A teacher that I had here at GCU brought up the topic of being fair. I was shocked when they said that being fair isn’t giving every child the same thing and opportunity. My professor said that being fair was giving the students what they need. That struck a chord deep within me. It made perfect sense. Teaching one student a specific way may work for them but not for another student. So being fair to each student would require the teacher to teach the lesson in a way that works for both.
I feel that there is a strong connection between the Professional Dispositions and the Model Code of Ethics. I think both help guide us on how we should behave and present ourselves. Basically, how to be a good person. I will continue to take steps to make sure I am meeting both the Professional Dispositions and Model Code of Ethics by continuing to learn what I can and apply the information to cooperating teachers, other teachers, staff members, students, family members, and members of the community. I will strive to be the best version of myself that I can be.