Where do I start? I can't believe that I have completed my master's program!!! I worked so hard and have spent so much time dedicated to this program that I can't believe it is now over. I think this has been one of the best experiences in my life. During the duration of my study, I was traveling all over the nation, writing papers, discussions and blog post on airplanes, airports and hotel rooms. I have no idea what I am going to now do with all the extra free time.
At least three deeply felt learning from this program.
1. The hidden passion for diversity. The cultural diversity course was on of my favorite courses. I never knew that I felt so passionate about anti-bias education. I want to know more information so I am considering receiving my doctorate in diversity in early childhood.
2. How adults learn. My specialization is teaching adults in the early childhood field, and although I am not a "theories" person, it was a wonderful experience learning about how adults learn and the different learning theories.
3. I learned how to conduct research. Before taking this program, I felt disconnected from research. I actually was afraid of research and didn't know how to read it. Now after conducting research and taking the research course, I am actually not afraid of research and know how to read and understand it. These skills are going to be very helpful in my doctorate journey.
At least one long-term goal
My long term goal is to be working at the Department of Education in the Early Childhood Sector. I want to be a policy maker so that all children can have a quality education and receive quality child care from caregivers and teachers.
A farewell message to your instructor and colleagues.
Dear colleagues,
I want to thank each and everyone of you! Your discussion post alone has pushed me to think beyond my limits. I have enjoyed all the discussions and different points of views. I wish nothing but the best for each and everyone of you!
Dear Instructors,
Thank you for pushing me beyond my limits. Thank you for every piece of feedback, comments and on times grades that you have every done. Thank you for making my learning experience an effective and rewarding experience.
Thank you!
Cierra
Saturday, August 20, 2016
Saturday, August 6, 2016
Jobs/Roles in ECE Community: Internationally
This week I conducted research over international organizations that focus on the early childhood field. Often, I am so focus on education because I am educator but I have to remember there are other aspects of early childhood such as poverty.
1. The first organization is Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children. This organization focuses on promoting policies and advances practices. This site reminds me of NAEYC because it offers professional development opportunities and different resources. This organization advocates primarily for children with special needs and disabilities.
This organization has one opening for an Executive Director (DEC). The posting says that it closed back in March but it is still posted and has the ability to still be submitted. Some of the qualifications for this job is demonstrates knowledge of dec primary mission and values, a master's degree in a related field, such as early education, special education or related services and a record of developing and effectively managing operations budgets and security program funding.
Website: www.dec-sped.org
2. The next organization is Association for Childhood Education International. This organization focus on united knowledge educator experience and perspective in order to exchange information, explore innovation and advocate for children. This organization reminds me of a giant community of practice because of the issues and resources that the organization presents. At this time there is no open positions but there is always an opportunity for an educator to join this organization and share their knowledge, experience and perspective to advocate for children.
Website: https://acei.org
3. The last organization is an organization that I was able to work for through a contract agreement a couple of times. The organization is the World Bank but in the Education sector. The education sector is about collecting data and determining how to promote quality education. I have the opportunity to work with Puerto Rico through the World Bank contract. The World Bank is also know for wanting to end poverty in families which is an important aspect in the early childhood field. There is one position open for economist which will focus on ending poverty in families. In addition to being a great oral and written communicator other qualifications for this job is have to have general economic knowledge and analytical skills. This position might not fit our degree well, but at this time there are not any data collect positions open for the education sector.
Website: www.worldbank.org/en/topic/education
I love researching all these different organizations! It great to see the value of education and early childhood on a global level.
1. The first organization is Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children. This organization focuses on promoting policies and advances practices. This site reminds me of NAEYC because it offers professional development opportunities and different resources. This organization advocates primarily for children with special needs and disabilities.
This organization has one opening for an Executive Director (DEC). The posting says that it closed back in March but it is still posted and has the ability to still be submitted. Some of the qualifications for this job is demonstrates knowledge of dec primary mission and values, a master's degree in a related field, such as early education, special education or related services and a record of developing and effectively managing operations budgets and security program funding.
Website: www.dec-sped.org
2. The next organization is Association for Childhood Education International. This organization focus on united knowledge educator experience and perspective in order to exchange information, explore innovation and advocate for children. This organization reminds me of a giant community of practice because of the issues and resources that the organization presents. At this time there is no open positions but there is always an opportunity for an educator to join this organization and share their knowledge, experience and perspective to advocate for children.
Website: https://acei.org
3. The last organization is an organization that I was able to work for through a contract agreement a couple of times. The organization is the World Bank but in the Education sector. The education sector is about collecting data and determining how to promote quality education. I have the opportunity to work with Puerto Rico through the World Bank contract. The World Bank is also know for wanting to end poverty in families which is an important aspect in the early childhood field. There is one position open for economist which will focus on ending poverty in families. In addition to being a great oral and written communicator other qualifications for this job is have to have general economic knowledge and analytical skills. This position might not fit our degree well, but at this time there are not any data collect positions open for the education sector.
Website: www.worldbank.org/en/topic/education
I love researching all these different organizations! It great to see the value of education and early childhood on a global level.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level
Oh how I love the field of early childhood! I remember when I first chose this degree and frighten I was that the jobs were going to be limited. Boy, was I wrong. This week has reminded me of exactly how vast this field is.
First things first...I love my job and won't be leaving it any time soon (at least I hope not)! I love to travel and teach, which is what I do. However, deep down inside, I have dream. That dream is to make laws for the the quality education of young children in Washington D.C. Which is funny because I love D.C. Washington D.C. is the foundation of so many companies and for some reason that is the same for the ECE field. All three federal and national organizations that I want to work with someday, all are based out of Washington D.C. Does that mean that I might become of resident of Washington D.C? Only time will tell...the future is never set in stone. Here are the three national/federal organizations that could be a part of my community of practice and a future career.
1. National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
This dream might happen sooner than later. NAEYC is the white to my rice and a lines with everything I believe in with young children. Hey! Come to think about it, this is how I found out about Walden and this degree program, almost two years ago. NAEYC is about providing the gold standard to young children and providing professional development to early childhood professionals. There is one job opportunity that I am interested in and it is called "Editor-in-Chief, Young Children". It's sounds scary right, but it's not. The function of the job includes providing leadership, strategic planning, content planning, editing and writing (could get better at this), content expertise, website and social media, managing workflow and a lot more. I like to dream big and work hard to make a difference, and this would be right up my field.
The skills I would need are strong project management, analytical and strategic planning skills (Check) A bachelor's degree, a MA desired (check), Minimum of 7 years of experience leading content products for the teacher and educator audience (I'm short a couple of years), high proficiency with MS Office (check) and many more! But it's worth this! Link here: https://naeyc.applicantpro.com/jobs/416051.html
2. Zero to Three
I have worked with Zero to Three over the years for Train-the -Trainer opportunities. I have friend who works there now and she is a parent advocate. Zero to Three focuses on family partnerships and family education. Just like NAEYC, Zero to Three is a leading organization that focus on child development in the first three years of life.
Zero to Three is based in Washington D.C. but has headquarters all over the nation. The current job opening that I would be interested in is Senior Training and Technical Assistance Specialist. The main function of this job is to provide training and technical assistance to programs who provide care for birth to five years olds. OF course, there are other job duties but this seems to be the main function.
The skills needs for the job is strong knowledge of children birth to five and their development (check), strong knowledge of CLASS Pre-K Observation tool (um...double check, I train on this tool for a living an also reliable!) and a Master's degree in Early Childhood or related field ( I will after August 21st!).
Link here: https://www.dcjobs.com/j/t-Sr-Training-Technical-Assistance-Specialist-e-Zero-to-Three-l-Washington,-DC-jobs-j18745795.html
3. Department of Education
It's is my dream to work for the Department of Education. I want to be at the top, making big differences for children. Department of Education has an ECE section but it is intertwined with Head Start (another company I could work for in Washington D.C.)
There is an opening for an Education Program Specialist and is located in Washington D.C. The main function of this job is ensure that there is compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act, so that Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers and young children can receive the assistance that they need with provides. This job includes grant writing so that they children can receive the materials and assistance that they need.
The skills and experience that I would need is 24 hours of course work in the related field of the position with at least 9 hours being in education (might be able to meet this???). At least 1 full academic year of professional teaching experience (check) and knowledge of the federal grants discretion process as it relates to special education (would have to find a course some where). Link here: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/445377800/
All three organizations are amazing! I know that someday I will have to move to Washington D.C., but I just don't know when. Thanks for reading!
Cierra
First things first...I love my job and won't be leaving it any time soon (at least I hope not)! I love to travel and teach, which is what I do. However, deep down inside, I have dream. That dream is to make laws for the the quality education of young children in Washington D.C. Which is funny because I love D.C. Washington D.C. is the foundation of so many companies and for some reason that is the same for the ECE field. All three federal and national organizations that I want to work with someday, all are based out of Washington D.C. Does that mean that I might become of resident of Washington D.C? Only time will tell...the future is never set in stone. Here are the three national/federal organizations that could be a part of my community of practice and a future career.
1. National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
This dream might happen sooner than later. NAEYC is the white to my rice and a lines with everything I believe in with young children. Hey! Come to think about it, this is how I found out about Walden and this degree program, almost two years ago. NAEYC is about providing the gold standard to young children and providing professional development to early childhood professionals. There is one job opportunity that I am interested in and it is called "Editor-in-Chief, Young Children". It's sounds scary right, but it's not. The function of the job includes providing leadership, strategic planning, content planning, editing and writing (could get better at this), content expertise, website and social media, managing workflow and a lot more. I like to dream big and work hard to make a difference, and this would be right up my field.
The skills I would need are strong project management, analytical and strategic planning skills (Check) A bachelor's degree, a MA desired (check), Minimum of 7 years of experience leading content products for the teacher and educator audience (I'm short a couple of years), high proficiency with MS Office (check) and many more! But it's worth this! Link here: https://naeyc.applicantpro.com/jobs/416051.html
2. Zero to Three
I have worked with Zero to Three over the years for Train-the -Trainer opportunities. I have friend who works there now and she is a parent advocate. Zero to Three focuses on family partnerships and family education. Just like NAEYC, Zero to Three is a leading organization that focus on child development in the first three years of life.
Zero to Three is based in Washington D.C. but has headquarters all over the nation. The current job opening that I would be interested in is Senior Training and Technical Assistance Specialist. The main function of this job is to provide training and technical assistance to programs who provide care for birth to five years olds. OF course, there are other job duties but this seems to be the main function.
The skills needs for the job is strong knowledge of children birth to five and their development (check), strong knowledge of CLASS Pre-K Observation tool (um...double check, I train on this tool for a living an also reliable!) and a Master's degree in Early Childhood or related field ( I will after August 21st!).
Link here: https://www.dcjobs.com/j/t-Sr-Training-Technical-Assistance-Specialist-e-Zero-to-Three-l-Washington,-DC-jobs-j18745795.html
3. Department of Education
It's is my dream to work for the Department of Education. I want to be at the top, making big differences for children. Department of Education has an ECE section but it is intertwined with Head Start (another company I could work for in Washington D.C.)
There is an opening for an Education Program Specialist and is located in Washington D.C. The main function of this job is ensure that there is compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act, so that Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers and young children can receive the assistance that they need with provides. This job includes grant writing so that they children can receive the materials and assistance that they need.
The skills and experience that I would need is 24 hours of course work in the related field of the position with at least 9 hours being in education (might be able to meet this???). At least 1 full academic year of professional teaching experience (check) and knowledge of the federal grants discretion process as it relates to special education (would have to find a course some where). Link here: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/445377800/
All three organizations are amazing! I know that someday I will have to move to Washington D.C., but I just don't know when. Thanks for reading!
Cierra
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Exploring Roles in the ECE Community: Local and State Levels
This week, I shared an experience that I had that helped me to become a part of a community of practice. I had joined a community of practice after I had observed an ineffective teacher-child interaction. The community of practice was filled with a group of members who wanted to improve teacher-child interactions in our community. For this blog post I decided to find three communities of practice that appealed to me and caught my interest.
1. Workforce Child Care Services http://www.wfscapitalarea.com/ChildcareServices.aspx (Austin, TX)
I chose this organization because it is my favorite community of practice in my community. Workforce Child Care Services wants to promote quality care for all young children. The organization partners with other community members to utilize resources, tools and experience to solve the problem of the lack of quality child care. This organization is also a community of practice for my Capstone Project issue which is teacher preparation because it offers many great resources for teachers including trainings, materials for classroom environments and free CDA classes. They currently have a position open for a mentor/coach for child care directors and teachers. The applicant has to have at least 2 years experience in a child care center, director or administrative titled preferred, a degree in Child development or in an related field and experience as a mentor/coach.
2. United Way of Austin http://www.unitedwayaustin.org/ (Austin, TX)
United Way has always been a great resource in the field of early childhood. United Way has many locations around the country and I am glad that there is a location in my community. United Way of Austin, works with families, child care directs and teachers to ensure that children receive quality care and develop to their full potential. United Way has a grant that works with NAEYC programs that helps their teachers be successful in the classroom. This organization is also a community of practice for my Capstone Project. They currently do not have a job open at this moment.
3. Teachstone, LLC http://teachstone.com/ (Charlottesville, VA)
I know what you're thinking, hey that is not anywhere close to Austin! I know, I know but this organization has remote coaches. This means I could work for this company but work with teachers in my community. This organization focuses on improving teacher-child interactions. I chose this community of practice because teacher-child interactions is in my opinion, the heart of teaching. In addition to making assessments and products for professional development, this organization wants to change the teaching field through interactions. There is a job opening for Professional Development Specialist. The requirement are a master's degree in education or a related field, 5 or more years in professional experience in the field of education, certified of the company's assessment, experience providing professional development and support to education professionals, knowledge of the current trends in the earl-childhood education research and practice, ability to translate research into practice, ability to provide feedback that is both directive and supportive, excellent oral and written communication skills and a willingness to travel.
These three organizations support teachers which is one of my professional goals. Maybe one day I can join one of their teams!
Cierra
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Long Time No See!
Hello there my friends! It's been a long time since I have seen this blog! 16 weeks to be exact! You can say I was on break but actually my last two courses didn't require a blog (what a shame!) So I am back and this week I had to think about my passion and issues in the early childhood field! I was a little sad because I couldn't do a Wordle like everyone else because I could not download Java on my work laptop, so I had to bring out my creative side a bit and make a homemade version. I have listed my passions and concerns for this wonderful field. If you have some time, check it out and tell me what you think
The blue highlighted "Teacher Preparation" is what I am thinking I am going to focus on my capstone project on! I'm excited and can't wait to see what I am going to do with this the topic of Teacher Preparation!
Cierra
Cierra
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Thank You!
I can't believe that it has been a year since I decided to join this journey into receiving my Masters. It wasn't something that I thought about for a long time, I literally attended NAEYC and met a professor. I have learned so much in my journey! Although I wasn't always happy on Wednesdays, Saturday and Sunday because that was when assignments were due, it was nice to read all of your post and discussions. Thank you colleagues for providing your points of views and challenging my thinking. There were times when I had to reflect on a discussion post that was written because it was so different from my view, but I was able to understand the topic through your lens, which made our assignments more meaningful.
I remember being really nervous about joining an online community, but really glad that I have had some great interactions with you all! Now that the journey is almost over, I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your specializations!
If you every need me, leave a comment on my blog!
Cierra
I remember being really nervous about joining an online community, but really glad that I have had some great interactions with you all! Now that the journey is almost over, I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your specializations!
If you every need me, leave a comment on my blog!
Cierra
Saturday, February 13, 2016
Adjourning after a Meeting
So....over the course of my career, I have attended many meetings. People in the early childhood field are always trying to find a better way to things because we are in a field that is every changing.
A couple of years ago I worked with the best team I have ever worked with. We had to come together to put together a conference for all the Child Care Directors in our community. We had our ups and downs, but it was a joy to work with all those women from different aspects of the ECE profession.
We worked together for a month, and the more we worked together, the more we were able to effectively communicate with each other. Relationships and trust begin to form over time. When we knew that we would have to be done with conference soon, we all hated it. We had some together and did some really great things for our community, and we all wished we could continue working with each other.
On our last day we had to close our project because we where done. We all hugged and gave each other our phone numbers. To celebrate our success with the conference, we all went out to Happy Hour. Going out to Happy Hours was so nice and I am glad to say that we are all still friends and have worked on more projects together.
Even though the adjourning step can be tough, it is nice to properly close a project. I am so glad that the adjourning process was a great process for me.
A couple of years ago I worked with the best team I have ever worked with. We had to come together to put together a conference for all the Child Care Directors in our community. We had our ups and downs, but it was a joy to work with all those women from different aspects of the ECE profession.
We worked together for a month, and the more we worked together, the more we were able to effectively communicate with each other. Relationships and trust begin to form over time. When we knew that we would have to be done with conference soon, we all hated it. We had some together and did some really great things for our community, and we all wished we could continue working with each other.
On our last day we had to close our project because we where done. We all hugged and gave each other our phone numbers. To celebrate our success with the conference, we all went out to Happy Hour. Going out to Happy Hours was so nice and I am glad to say that we are all still friends and have worked on more projects together.
Even though the adjourning step can be tough, it is nice to properly close a project. I am so glad that the adjourning process was a great process for me.
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Conflicts
I hate conflicts! I hate being upset and frustrated, especially if it's with someone that I love. I find myself throwing up my hands, leaving or saying something rude to end the conversation. Since I have taken this course, I have been reminded of what effective and respectful communication looks like.
Last weekend I threw a friend of mines a baby shower. I was the host and planner of the baby shower. When some her of friends showed up, they wanted things to go a different way than what I had planned. For example, if I wanted to play three games, then they wanted to play one. If I asked them to sit at one table, they wanted to sit at another. After being at the party for an hour, I begin to get frustrated with all the last minute changes.
I asked one of the friends, I'll call her Claire (so that I can protect her identity), to come into the kitchen with me. Once Claire came in the kitchen I said, "Hi Claire, thank you so much for coming. I noticed that there are somethings that you would like to change, so lets do this, lets make a compromise, I have planned out the party, but if you see something that could be done better, let me know and we will figure it out together." Claire was super shocked that I said this and replied, "No everything is great, I was just trying to help." I told her I understood, and we went back to the party and Claire didn't tell me anything else.
I can think of a million different ways this problem could have been solved, but it would probably result from me being in jail. I think because I was respectful, responsive and really trying to include Claire, this helped our conflict. At the end of the party, she came and gave me a big hug, and said that it was a great party.
One of my goals last week was to remain calm. Along with nonviolent communication, the three R's and remaining calm, my conflict had ceased, and what I originally viewed as a negative, turned into a positive.
Last weekend I threw a friend of mines a baby shower. I was the host and planner of the baby shower. When some her of friends showed up, they wanted things to go a different way than what I had planned. For example, if I wanted to play three games, then they wanted to play one. If I asked them to sit at one table, they wanted to sit at another. After being at the party for an hour, I begin to get frustrated with all the last minute changes.
I asked one of the friends, I'll call her Claire (so that I can protect her identity), to come into the kitchen with me. Once Claire came in the kitchen I said, "Hi Claire, thank you so much for coming. I noticed that there are somethings that you would like to change, so lets do this, lets make a compromise, I have planned out the party, but if you see something that could be done better, let me know and we will figure it out together." Claire was super shocked that I said this and replied, "No everything is great, I was just trying to help." I told her I understood, and we went back to the party and Claire didn't tell me anything else.
I can think of a million different ways this problem could have been solved, but it would probably result from me being in jail. I think because I was respectful, responsive and really trying to include Claire, this helped our conflict. At the end of the party, she came and gave me a big hug, and said that it was a great party.
One of my goals last week was to remain calm. Along with nonviolent communication, the three R's and remaining calm, my conflict had ceased, and what I originally viewed as a negative, turned into a positive.
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Communication Scale
This week I had two very important people in my life take quizzes about how they felt I was as a communicator. The two people was my mom and my goodfriend Karissa. I felt that both of these ladies know me very well, and out all of the people in the world, I have probably communicated the most with them.
Scale 1: Communication Anxiety Inventory
All three of us was the same! We all said that I feel comfortable communicating in most situations. My mom added, "Sometimes too comfortable!" It makes sense because for a living I am a Early Childhood trainer, and train in a different part of the United States every week. So we all agreed via phone and text, that I am pretty much a social bug, and love to meet new people.
Scale 2: Verbal Aggressiveness Scale
Okay, this is one scale I can definitely improve with, and we all said that. My mom and I both said that I landed in the significant zone, but barely, I was right on the 69 that was required. Karissa gave me a moderate, because she said, "That she only sees that side of me when I am upset, which makes sense."
Scale 3: Listening Styles Profile
This was one area that both ladies said I could improve on. My mother shared with me that I am on my cell phone quite a bit during our dinner dates, and that she can't finish an entire story without me showing her a picture on Instagram (guilty!). Karissa mentioned that I am often day dreaming during our conversations, which sometimes makes her feel like I think she is boring (not true...I just get distracted easily). My mom and I both said that I was people-oriented, however Karissa said that I was very content-oriented. Karissa said, "You always have to know every little detail in the story, or exactly what someone said. It's like you are a detective."
I found it interesting that my mom and I was the same for every scale. Karissa was close for the most part but I was a little surprised that she said I was content-oriented, because I like to know details. I just thought it was because I was nosey, but she told me that I am always asking questions and making her repeat stuff.
I learned that I really need to work on my aggressiveness score, because it was high. It's funny, I always thought of myself as a nice person, but both ladies agreed that I am nice until we have a disagreement. I don't want to be that person, and I was to improve, so now I have some stuff that I can improve on.
Until next time!
Cierra
Scale 1: Communication Anxiety Inventory
All three of us was the same! We all said that I feel comfortable communicating in most situations. My mom added, "Sometimes too comfortable!" It makes sense because for a living I am a Early Childhood trainer, and train in a different part of the United States every week. So we all agreed via phone and text, that I am pretty much a social bug, and love to meet new people.
Scale 2: Verbal Aggressiveness Scale
Okay, this is one scale I can definitely improve with, and we all said that. My mom and I both said that I landed in the significant zone, but barely, I was right on the 69 that was required. Karissa gave me a moderate, because she said, "That she only sees that side of me when I am upset, which makes sense."
Scale 3: Listening Styles Profile
This was one area that both ladies said I could improve on. My mother shared with me that I am on my cell phone quite a bit during our dinner dates, and that she can't finish an entire story without me showing her a picture on Instagram (guilty!). Karissa mentioned that I am often day dreaming during our conversations, which sometimes makes her feel like I think she is boring (not true...I just get distracted easily). My mom and I both said that I was people-oriented, however Karissa said that I was very content-oriented. Karissa said, "You always have to know every little detail in the story, or exactly what someone said. It's like you are a detective."
I found it interesting that my mom and I was the same for every scale. Karissa was close for the most part but I was a little surprised that she said I was content-oriented, because I like to know details. I just thought it was because I was nosey, but she told me that I am always asking questions and making her repeat stuff.
I learned that I really need to work on my aggressiveness score, because it was high. It's funny, I always thought of myself as a nice person, but both ladies agreed that I am nice until we have a disagreement. I don't want to be that person, and I was to improve, so now I have some stuff that I can improve on.
Until next time!
Cierra
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Cultural Diversity in the Workplace
This week we have been discussing Cultural Myopia and the Platinum Rule. For this week's blog post, I am going to use my colleagues for my diversity post.
On my training team there are 11 trainers, and we are all very different. We all live in different places in the United States, we are different ages and pretty much different everything. The biggest similarity that we have is that we are all trainers.
I do find myself communicating differently with people from different and cultures, but not in a disrespectful way. I change how I communicate more on the situation than the actually people. For example, I might use more slang during a dinner with the coworkers, but use more academic English when we are at a meeting a work.
If I am honest with myself, I do think that I am an effective communicator, but when I am upset or feel threaten, the effective part goes out the window. I am a sensitive person and grew up in a family where sometimes "pushing buttons" were a norm and you felt threaten quite a bit. I am working on getting better at controlling my nonverbal behaviors and really staying true to the Platinum Rule.
When you are trainer you learn how to effectively communicate with people who are culturally different from you, because all of the participants you meet are different from you. However one strategy that I thought was amazing, was the strategy of creating a third culture. A "third culture" is when you take your own culture and the person's culture, and make one culture instead of two separate (Beebe,Beebe & Redmond, 2011).I thought that was an amazing idea.
Reference:
Beebe, S. A., Beebe, S. J., & Redmond, M. V. (2011). Interpersonal communication: Relating to others (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
On my training team there are 11 trainers, and we are all very different. We all live in different places in the United States, we are different ages and pretty much different everything. The biggest similarity that we have is that we are all trainers.
I do find myself communicating differently with people from different and cultures, but not in a disrespectful way. I change how I communicate more on the situation than the actually people. For example, I might use more slang during a dinner with the coworkers, but use more academic English when we are at a meeting a work.
If I am honest with myself, I do think that I am an effective communicator, but when I am upset or feel threaten, the effective part goes out the window. I am a sensitive person and grew up in a family where sometimes "pushing buttons" were a norm and you felt threaten quite a bit. I am working on getting better at controlling my nonverbal behaviors and really staying true to the Platinum Rule.
When you are trainer you learn how to effectively communicate with people who are culturally different from you, because all of the participants you meet are different from you. However one strategy that I thought was amazing, was the strategy of creating a third culture. A "third culture" is when you take your own culture and the person's culture, and make one culture instead of two separate (Beebe,Beebe & Redmond, 2011).I thought that was an amazing idea.
Reference:
Beebe, S. A., Beebe, S. J., & Redmond, M. V. (2011). Interpersonal communication: Relating to others (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
Saturday, January 16, 2016
Learning and Understanding Communication Skills and Styles
The blog assignment this week was very interesting and I truly enjoyed it. I think I laughed harder at the fact that I was completely "off target" with one of the scenes, than some of the jokes in the show.
This week we were supposed to watch a show on mute, try to understand the characters relationship and focus on their feelings and expressions based on nonverbal ques. After watching the show on mute, we were to go back and re-watch the show, with the sound and reflect on our assumptions that we made about the show.
This week we were supposed to watch a show on mute, try to understand the characters relationship and focus on their feelings and expressions based on nonverbal ques. After watching the show on mute, we were to go back and re-watch the show, with the sound and reflect on our assumptions that we made about the show.
The show that I decided to watch was "The Big Bang Theory"
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| Google Images |
Part 1 (Watching the Show with no sounds):
1.What do you think characters' relationship are based on the ways in which they are communicating?
-So I think that the lady in the blue and the guy in the beige jacket are in a relationship, because they are seen taking to each other a lot, and both of them are wearing wedding rings. Also I noticed the woman in the blue dress grab the guy with the beige jackets' face to make him look into her eyes.
-The guy with the beige jacket is friends and might live with the guy in the green shirt.
-The guy in the green shirt, and lady in the purple sweater, are mad at each other, or she is made at him, because she pointed her finger in his face.
-All the guys seems to be friends in the show.
2. What are they feelings and expressing based on nonverbal behavior you are observing.
-The lady in the pink sweater seemed to be sad, because she was frowning with her face.
-The lady in the purple sweater was upset because she was frowning and pointing her finger at the guy in the green shirt.
Part 2 (Watching the Show with Sound):
1. What assumption did you make about the characteristics and plot based on the ways in which you interpreted the communication you observed.
-So I knew the lady in the purple sweater was upset with Sheldon (the guy in the green sweater) because he was talking bad about her during his flag show.
-The people that I thought were married, are actually married and they live with Sheldon.
-The lady in pink, was not sad, she was feeling guilty after spying on her husband, which is the guy in the red sweater.
2. Would your assumptions have more correct if you had been watching a show you know well?
Of course! I would have been watching Empire, I would have been able to know the plot without any words, and my lip reading action would be more accurate because I know the characters, and some possible outcomes that could happen in the show. With the Big Bang Theory, I didn't know the characters or the plot. I thought there was only one plot taking place, but there were three different situations happening in the show, I was confused.
I really liked this activity because it really taught me to focus on nonverbal communications, and I realized how much I take verbal communication for granted.
Reference.
https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1242&bih=606&q=the+big+bang+theory&oq=the+big+&gs_l=img.1.0.0l10.4506.5824.0.7110.8.7.0.0.0.0.220.974.0j4j2.6.0....0...1ac.1.64.img..2.6.969.iDrIvx-GJ2s#imgrc=_tvbzyOf2lbd3M%3A
Saturday, January 9, 2016
Someone Who Exhibits Competent Communication
This week I had to think about a person someone who exhibits competent communication and the one person who comes to mind in my Supervisor Lisa. Usually I have supervisors who are not effective communicators, so when I met Lisa I was very surprised.
What makes Lisa a competent communicator is that she not only listens, but she respects different point of views. Often a supervisor is really about their own agenda, but Lisa is not like that, she welcomes our thoughts and opinions, and it's great to see our suggestions in the final product.
I have learn a lot from Lisa because she effectively communicates with all of her employees, and it really makes our careers and routines easier. I don't think that I could model some effective communication skills, because she already does it. For example, I had a suggestion about the training that we give. When I called her and shared my suggestion, she listen, shared with me some of her concerns about my suggestion. We had a conversation about my suggestion, and we made a compromise. For the training, aspects of my suggestion was done, but because we had a compromise, some parts of the training stayed the same.
It is a good feeling when you have a supervisor who does effective communication, it makes the process so much smoother.
What makes Lisa a competent communicator is that she not only listens, but she respects different point of views. Often a supervisor is really about their own agenda, but Lisa is not like that, she welcomes our thoughts and opinions, and it's great to see our suggestions in the final product.
I have learn a lot from Lisa because she effectively communicates with all of her employees, and it really makes our careers and routines easier. I don't think that I could model some effective communication skills, because she already does it. For example, I had a suggestion about the training that we give. When I called her and shared my suggestion, she listen, shared with me some of her concerns about my suggestion. We had a conversation about my suggestion, and we made a compromise. For the training, aspects of my suggestion was done, but because we had a compromise, some parts of the training stayed the same.
It is a good feeling when you have a supervisor who does effective communication, it makes the process so much smoother.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Professional Hope and Goals
I really enjoyed this course, I was able to challenge myself and reflect on experiences that really defined who I am. One hope that I have when working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is that classrooms represents all of their culture.I really hope that every child and family can feel and be accepted as they are.
One goal that I would like to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity and social justice is that we see continue to see progress. Progress is so important and really makes a difference. We have to celebrate the things that we have overcome and continue to make differences. The first step of anything is awareness, so making families and people aware of diversity, equity and social justice is a big step.
Thank you colleagues for supporting me and challenging my thinking. It has been a real blessing to write each of you this last 8 weeks.
See you next semester!
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Welcoming Families From Around the World
This post hit home to me because I had a lady in my training last week from Singapore. When I found out a month ago that I was going to have this lady in my training, I began to do my research on Singapore, really focusing on the child care system. The reason I did this is because I train on how to assess quality teacher child interactions, and I needed to ensure that what I was saying could a line to the culture of Singapore. I learned that Singapore child care system is a little different from America's mainstream child care, but that there are strides to really focus on quality care outside of the home.
In addition to researching Singapore, when I met Siren, my participant from Singapore, I asked her to tell me about the child care system she worked with. I asked her this because I didn't want to make the assumption that what I researched about Singapore was her experience. She was able to share with me her experience with child care, and the purpose of attending my training.
To answer the questions of the blog:
Since I work with adults who work with children, I will use that position to answer the following questions:
1. The name of "your" participant country of origin: Singapore
2. At least five ways in which you will prepare yourself to be culturally responsive towards the participant? 1. Conduct research 2. Ask the participants their experience instead of just assuming 3. Being aware of my own bias 4. Allow participants to share their stories and experience that may be different from the dominant culture 5. Create a diverse learning environment
3. A brief statement describing in what ways you hope that these preparations will benefit both you and the participant. I believe that the steps that I am taking will allow the participant to be comfortable in our discussions, and by asking their experiences, let them know that we value them an their opinions.
In addition to researching Singapore, when I met Siren, my participant from Singapore, I asked her to tell me about the child care system she worked with. I asked her this because I didn't want to make the assumption that what I researched about Singapore was her experience. She was able to share with me her experience with child care, and the purpose of attending my training.
To answer the questions of the blog:
Since I work with adults who work with children, I will use that position to answer the following questions:
1. The name of "your" participant country of origin: Singapore
2. At least five ways in which you will prepare yourself to be culturally responsive towards the participant? 1. Conduct research 2. Ask the participants their experience instead of just assuming 3. Being aware of my own bias 4. Allow participants to share their stories and experience that may be different from the dominant culture 5. Create a diverse learning environment
3. A brief statement describing in what ways you hope that these preparations will benefit both you and the participant. I believe that the steps that I am taking will allow the participant to be comfortable in our discussions, and by asking their experiences, let them know that we value them an their opinions.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice and Oppression
When I reflect on my experience with bias, prejudice and oppression, I think the experiences that hurt the most were the ones that happened on the "sly". When I say the "sly" I mean that it was done in a passive aggressive manner. The experience that I have been thinking about the most lately was when I was working as a Director of a Child Care Center. When I was first hired to create a child care center from scratch. My boss who was a male, only expected me to work with the children because he believed that was my "place". When we first opened we were having some financial issues because we didn't have enough families yet. I had worked at a center before and wanted to share my financial experience with my boss because I had overcome the same problem at my previous job. I went to my boss with my idea, and basically was told not to worry about it, just to worry about the children because that was what I was good at, because women were good caretakers. At the time, because he said it in a laughing manner, I didn't let it get to me, but now I know I was a victim of sexism.
The way my story diminished equity, was I wasn't even given the chance to try my idea because I was out of my "lane". Our business ended up suffering, until we hired a financial consultant who was a woman. When I shared my idea with her, she tried it, and it worked, We were out of debt within 3 months.
The feelings that were brought up because of this was hurt, confusion and the feeling that I wasn't good enough, or smart enough to run a child care center. It also hurt my professional feeling because it made me feel like I was only the "babysitter" and that was it.
The fact that someone was hired and heard me out, lets me know that my boss had to be moved aside so that I could have an opportunity to try out my idea, that ended up working.
It's so funny now that I am able to spot different isms out, before I knew about them, but wasn't so aware. Now I am fully aware and find myself pointing them throughout my week.
The way my story diminished equity, was I wasn't even given the chance to try my idea because I was out of my "lane". Our business ended up suffering, until we hired a financial consultant who was a woman. When I shared my idea with her, she tried it, and it worked, We were out of debt within 3 months.
The feelings that were brought up because of this was hurt, confusion and the feeling that I wasn't good enough, or smart enough to run a child care center. It also hurt my professional feeling because it made me feel like I was only the "babysitter" and that was it.
The fact that someone was hired and heard me out, lets me know that my boss had to be moved aside so that I could have an opportunity to try out my idea, that ended up working.
It's so funny now that I am able to spot different isms out, before I knew about them, but wasn't so aware. Now I am fully aware and find myself pointing them throughout my week.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Awareness of Microaggressions
This week I learned about microaggressions, I actually have experienced microaggression, but I just never knew what it was called. According to Derald Wing Sue (2011), the speaker
of the media segment, “Microaggressions are brief everyday indignities that are
verbal, behavioral or environmental, that they may be intentional or
unintentionally communicated to women, to people of color, to gay/lesbians that
have an insulting message behind them that often time causes severe
psychological distress and harm” (Laureate Education, 2011).
I want to share my experience of microaggression, I shared this experience in my weekly reflective journal assignment, but since you all can't read it, I will share it with you all.
I have experienced microaggression, and for me it happened with my white friends or even co-workers. Once I was riding back from lunch with a co-worker who I felt close to. We were talking about some of the child care centers we worked with, and some of the teachers we really needed to mentor. During the conversation, my co-worker looked at me and said, “Cierra, sometimes I forget that you are black because you don’t act black.” I remember being upset, but not wanting to say something because I was afraid that I would be labeled as the “angry black woman.” I looked over at my co-worker who was smiling at me, and I could tell that she didn’t mean any harm, but I still felt hurt, anger and dishonored.
I think what makes microaggression so interesting is that it is not done on purpose, most of the people who say it, is not aware that they might offend the person they are saying the comment to. I have to admit that I have done it before. I think the reason I did it is because I wanted to relate to the person. I know it is werid, but for some reason I thought that is how I let the person know that I know they are different and I made note of that. It's crazy, I know, and I won't be doing it ever again.
Reference:
Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Microaggressions in everyday life [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
I want to share my experience of microaggression, I shared this experience in my weekly reflective journal assignment, but since you all can't read it, I will share it with you all.
I have experienced microaggression, and for me it happened with my white friends or even co-workers. Once I was riding back from lunch with a co-worker who I felt close to. We were talking about some of the child care centers we worked with, and some of the teachers we really needed to mentor. During the conversation, my co-worker looked at me and said, “Cierra, sometimes I forget that you are black because you don’t act black.” I remember being upset, but not wanting to say something because I was afraid that I would be labeled as the “angry black woman.” I looked over at my co-worker who was smiling at me, and I could tell that she didn’t mean any harm, but I still felt hurt, anger and dishonored.
I think what makes microaggression so interesting is that it is not done on purpose, most of the people who say it, is not aware that they might offend the person they are saying the comment to. I have to admit that I have done it before. I think the reason I did it is because I wanted to relate to the person. I know it is werid, but for some reason I thought that is how I let the person know that I know they are different and I made note of that. It's crazy, I know, and I won't be doing it ever again.
Reference:
Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Microaggressions in everyday life [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Perspectives on Diversity and Culture
The term culture means so many things to different people, and this week's blog assignment proved that. This week I spoke to my mom, boyfriend and bestfriend, and ask them some questions about culture.
I asked all three people what are their thoughts about diversity and culture.
My Mom:
Culture is everything, I think it has to do with how people live. In theory everyone wants to be diverse, but it's actually hard because everyone wants to be accepted.
Boyfriend:
Well look at our relationship, laugh out loud. We are so different from each other. I mean I was raised in Dallas, and you were raised in Austin, and that contributes to who we are as people. I like diversity and I like learning from people who are different from me. I love that we are from different races and cultures, I learn so much from you everyday.
Bestfriend:
I think culture is important, but I really don't know what my culture is. I get culture confused with identity. My mom and I was just talking about the importance of dating someone who is from the same yolk as you. When you date someone like you, it makes the relationship easier.
I learned a lot from the answers I received and thought a lot about what they all said. My mom's definition of culture is how I view culture. I also believe that culture is everything and it is how people live.
Everyone's opinion of culture is different, but my bestfriend had a point about dating someone who is from the same yolk as you. Don't get me wrong, I love my boyfriend, but I am happy that we share the same "deep" culture such as religion.
Culture is an interesting topic to learn about, because it is everyone, and it is more exciting to hear how other people view it.
I asked all three people what are their thoughts about diversity and culture.
My Mom:
Culture is everything, I think it has to do with how people live. In theory everyone wants to be diverse, but it's actually hard because everyone wants to be accepted.
Boyfriend:
Well look at our relationship, laugh out loud. We are so different from each other. I mean I was raised in Dallas, and you were raised in Austin, and that contributes to who we are as people. I like diversity and I like learning from people who are different from me. I love that we are from different races and cultures, I learn so much from you everyday.
Bestfriend:
I think culture is important, but I really don't know what my culture is. I get culture confused with identity. My mom and I was just talking about the importance of dating someone who is from the same yolk as you. When you date someone like you, it makes the relationship easier.
I learned a lot from the answers I received and thought a lot about what they all said. My mom's definition of culture is how I view culture. I also believe that culture is everything and it is how people live.
Everyone's opinion of culture is different, but my bestfriend had a point about dating someone who is from the same yolk as you. Don't get me wrong, I love my boyfriend, but I am happy that we share the same "deep" culture such as religion.
Culture is an interesting topic to learn about, because it is everyone, and it is more exciting to hear how other people view it.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
My Family Culture
I love the scenarios when you have to decide 3 things to take with you. It's like you have to categorize your life. So after much thought I think I have my answers to the questions below.
1. Three items you would take to represent your family culture in case of a major catastrophe.
I wish this was simple, but it isn't, but I would take:
1. Three items you would take to represent your family culture in case of a major catastrophe.
I wish this was simple, but it isn't, but I would take:
1. My chest of family photos
2. My cell phone
3. My chest full of letters from family member
So these three items represent something special to me. The chest full of family photos has all my photos of my family in there. There are pictures of my grandparents when they were young, and all my family. What I think is so interesting is that people don't take pictures for family albums anymore, but really now for Facebook and social media. The chest with all my photos gives me memories and remind me of where I came from.
My cell phone is my favorite thing, and it holds pictures, text, music and other things that represent my family. I have videos of gatherings we have had, and pictures that will never be deleted.
Since I was about 7 years old, I have been saving letters. I remember writing letters to my friends in between classes. I also remember there was a time in my life when my mother couldn't afford a home phone, so I communicated with family members via letters in the mail. My grandma and I wrote letters all the time, nearly every week, and she would share stories with me, and I would learn a little something about my family.
If someone told me that I could only keep one item, it would have to be the phone. The videos on it are special, and one is of my grandma on her 85th birthday.
What I learned about this exercise is that I don't items per say that represent my family culture but I do have memories. When I was doing this exercise I was looking around my house to find items that represented my family, but all I could find was pictures. I thought that was very interesting!
Saturday, October 24, 2015
When I Think of Research
Another semester is coming to close. I can almost feel graduation on my face! This semester turned out to be quite a joy. From sitting my top on my lap in airports, hotels and even Uber, I have successfully completed another course in my master journey. As my last blog assignment for EDUC 6163, I have some questions that I am going to reply to!
1. What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
Answer: I really don't know where to start. I know when I first started this course, I remember a streak of fear coursing through my body, that even the word "Research" scared me. I believe what saved me was the awesome handouts, textbook and of course Dr. Parrish. I learned that research is a process, but it can be done, and you have a choice on the path you can take to get it there.
2. In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
Answer: Research is not a bad thing. Actually after planning out a research design, I actually understand research and the process a lot more, and feel that research might play a part in my future with early childhood.
3.What lessons about planning, designing and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
Answer: The real questions is what did I not learn? I entered this course not knowing a thing about research, except that it gave answers to our questions. Now I know how to select a topic, write a hypothesis, design a study, select participants and even determine dependent and independent variables.
4. What were some of the challenges you encountered-and in what ways did you meet them?
Answer: I hated the week when we had to turn our research topics into quantitative designs. I repeat, I hated that week, and believe I even cried the Sunday it was due. (Yes I am a dramatic person!) I wanted my assignment to be perfect, but I had no idea how to turn my research topic into a quantitative design because I had selected the topic to be a qualitative design in my head. I was so frustrated that week. But I learn so much from the comments Dr. Parrish left me and I now feel more confident in the quantitative design, just please don't ask me to complete another one.
5. What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
Answer: Not much! I never really considered myself a researcher, and still don't, but I know that is something that I am capable of doing. Humans in the early childhood profession wear many hats and have magical powers. I remember when I was a Director, and the Account specialist asked me to write down a list of things I did at work daily, so that they could try to match my pay to my worth. Well I remember the page was two and half pages long. The Account specialist came back to me and said, "Oh my, I would have never guess that you did this much? We can never pay you what your worth, but we do appreciate you and will buy you breakfast every Friday." So I guess it's safe to say that I can add "design a research study" to my list of things I can do!
I enjoyed reading all of your post and discussions, see you in our next course!
Cierra
1. What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
Answer: I really don't know where to start. I know when I first started this course, I remember a streak of fear coursing through my body, that even the word "Research" scared me. I believe what saved me was the awesome handouts, textbook and of course Dr. Parrish. I learned that research is a process, but it can be done, and you have a choice on the path you can take to get it there.
2. In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
Answer: Research is not a bad thing. Actually after planning out a research design, I actually understand research and the process a lot more, and feel that research might play a part in my future with early childhood.
3.What lessons about planning, designing and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
Answer: The real questions is what did I not learn? I entered this course not knowing a thing about research, except that it gave answers to our questions. Now I know how to select a topic, write a hypothesis, design a study, select participants and even determine dependent and independent variables.
4. What were some of the challenges you encountered-and in what ways did you meet them?
Answer: I hated the week when we had to turn our research topics into quantitative designs. I repeat, I hated that week, and believe I even cried the Sunday it was due. (Yes I am a dramatic person!) I wanted my assignment to be perfect, but I had no idea how to turn my research topic into a quantitative design because I had selected the topic to be a qualitative design in my head. I was so frustrated that week. But I learn so much from the comments Dr. Parrish left me and I now feel more confident in the quantitative design, just please don't ask me to complete another one.
5. What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
Answer: Not much! I never really considered myself a researcher, and still don't, but I know that is something that I am capable of doing. Humans in the early childhood profession wear many hats and have magical powers. I remember when I was a Director, and the Account specialist asked me to write down a list of things I did at work daily, so that they could try to match my pay to my worth. Well I remember the page was two and half pages long. The Account specialist came back to me and said, "Oh my, I would have never guess that you did this much? We can never pay you what your worth, but we do appreciate you and will buy you breakfast every Friday." So I guess it's safe to say that I can add "design a research study" to my list of things I can do!
I enjoyed reading all of your post and discussions, see you in our next course!
Cierra
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Research Around the World
The website I choose to explore was Early Childhood Australia, there at two reasons why I chose Early Childhood Australia, the first reason is because it's the Australian equivalent to the U.S. based NAEYC and second, my job is talking about sending me there to train teachers, so I wanted to have a strong foundation before I go.
Some of the current international research topics included, The role of research in professionalizing early childhood, why play-based learning, the ethics of early childhood research and my favorite Leveling the Playing field for Kindergarten entry: Research implications for preschool early literacy instruction.
What made this explorations so amazing was how much information I learned about Australia and the different things they are doing with early childhood, for example, the program Kids Matter, which works with early childhood education and other services, to support the mental health and well-being of young children (Early Childhood Australia, n.d.). Another thing that I found that was insightful was about the importance of talking to children and using language everyday. What I learned is that by helping children talk, and by listening and responding to them, is a critical occurrence that must happened daily both in the present and the future (Early Childhood Australia, n.d.). Children learn from us, so it's important that we set an example, and we provide opportunities for children to use language.
I really enjoyed exploring and learning from this website. Something else that I found valuable is that the website provides a lot of resources, and one of the resources was different modules, some of the modules that are available is outdoor learning, duty care for workers and the role of certified supervisor. I thought this information would be useful to me because there were topics to that interest me.
Reference:
Early Childhood Australia. (n.d.). Retrieved October 3, 2015, from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/
Some of the current international research topics included, The role of research in professionalizing early childhood, why play-based learning, the ethics of early childhood research and my favorite Leveling the Playing field for Kindergarten entry: Research implications for preschool early literacy instruction.
What made this explorations so amazing was how much information I learned about Australia and the different things they are doing with early childhood, for example, the program Kids Matter, which works with early childhood education and other services, to support the mental health and well-being of young children (Early Childhood Australia, n.d.). Another thing that I found that was insightful was about the importance of talking to children and using language everyday. What I learned is that by helping children talk, and by listening and responding to them, is a critical occurrence that must happened daily both in the present and the future (Early Childhood Australia, n.d.). Children learn from us, so it's important that we set an example, and we provide opportunities for children to use language.
I really enjoyed exploring and learning from this website. Something else that I found valuable is that the website provides a lot of resources, and one of the resources was different modules, some of the modules that are available is outdoor learning, duty care for workers and the role of certified supervisor. I thought this information would be useful to me because there were topics to that interest me.
Reference:
Early Childhood Australia. (n.d.). Retrieved October 3, 2015, from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/
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