Showcase of Work

The greatest perks of being a lifelong learner and continuing my education has not just been to broaden and deepen my knowledge of teaching and education, but it has also about viewing these topics from a fresh perspective. Below you can explore some of these lessons and work from my time at Michigan State. I have separated them into four categories: Science & Math, Literacy, Technology and Post-Secondary Education.

* I will update these projects as I complete more classes through the MAED program.

Science & Math

Water Text Set

Click here to view a text set I created where I had the unique opportunity to combine both literature and science. The set focuses first on the book "A Different Pond" by Bao Phi, and extends to the topics of clean water and water ecosystems. From this project I learned the value of combining different subjects.

Math Homework Study

Click here to view a project where I investigated what makes math homework effective. Using an online survey and academic research, I examined what homework practices work best. I learned that grade level, type of tasks and teacher feedback are the key to effective homework.

Literacy

Long & Short "o" Spelling Study

Click here to view an in-depth study of the long and short o spelling patterns. In this study and lesson, I examined the "braid" of literacy, and worked closely with one student on their spelling. I discovered that a long-term approach was more successful than individual lessons for improving spelling.

Overcoming Disabilities

Click here to view a book review of "El Deafo" by Cece Bell. In this essay, I examine the main character as she accepts her hearing disability and turns it into her "super power". I made a personal connection to this topic, and think it is a great resource for myself and future students that may have disabilities.

Technology

Gains & Losses of Technology

Click here to view a personal essay where I weigh the pros and cons of technology in both our personal lives and in the classroom. I explore what I think we have both gained and lost- as individuals, as educators, and as students. I learned that technology can both add and detract from our lives.

A Balance of Technology

Click here to view another essay where I examine the positive and negative aspects of technology in the classroom and in our personal lives. Using the lens of past philosophers, I concluded that society has always been leary of change. I also learned that we should wisely incorporate technology in our lives

Post-Secondary Education

Investing in Higher Education

Click here to view an essay where I examine the factors that influence what institutions of higher education an individual attends. Choosing a college or university should be viewed as an investment. I learned that there are insurmountable market and non-market returns to attending college.

Higher Education Budgeting

Click here to view a sample budget for an institution of higher education. Here I was able to learn the basics of budgeting, including capital budgets, operating budgets and forecasting budgets for future planning. This project allowed me to gain valuable insight into the financial side of education.