Week 3 responses
a year ago
75
3.2Discussion.Responses.CapstoneProjectImplementation.docx
3.1Discussion.Responses.FacingFear.docx
3.2Discussion.Responses.CapstoneProjectImplementation.docx
INSTRUCTIONS: Respond to the two (Ashley and Travis) posts with words of encouragement and praise, and suggestions for overcoming obstacles, if necessary.
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· 3.2 Capstone Project Implementation
Ashley
I did my teaching lesson for the 5th-grade class this week. I was really surprised by the number of people in the classroom; there were four adults, a 5th-grade class of 30 students, and five special education students from other classes, which I had not anticipated. There were some non-English speakers in the class as well. I started the teaching by having the kids do a pre-survey and then presented my teaching slides. I asked the kids questions and had them practice stress-reducing techniques using mindfulness strategies such as belly breathing, grounding, gratitude, and positive affirmations. The kids seemed engaged, paid attention well, and asked thoughtful questions. I had a short video on the power of words and positive self-talk at the end.
Next week, I will return to the classroom and do some review, get feedback, and do a post-survey to check for retention of information. I am currently experiencing some mixed emotions. To be honest, teaching a lesson to a large group of students is not in my wheelhouse. Even though I was excited about the material I was teaching and had excellent slides, I was also very nervous speaking to such a large group. The room was very hot, and the desks were spaced out so much that I could not hear the kids' questions at the back of the classroom, so I had to walk over to the back of the classroom to hear them. I also felt the adults in the room (not the teacher) were judging me. I admit that I could have been imagining that part. I am a novice in this arena, and I am not as smooth and polished as a seasoned teacher. I didn't know how to work the smart board either and felt awkward with that part. I am unfamiliar with classroom management procedures and how the kids are used to doing things.
I am more comfortable in smaller groups and one-on-one teaching. This is part of my fears and my introversion working against me. It has been a lifelong struggle to speak in public, and it's one of the most dreaded things in life for me! A highlight was that the teacher was very supportive and appreciative. The children seemed interested in the material and were actively engaged, asking questions and commenting. There were very few to zero disruptive behaviors. When talking about negative self-talk, it seemed to resonate with particular students, who said they do that all the time. I can attest that they do talk negatively about themselves (I've heard it first-hand), and part of my plan was to offer an alternative to negative self-talk by flipping the script and having them think about saying positive words instead.
This project has made me think that perhaps a different type of delivery method to a smaller group of students who are having trouble managing emotions or stress might be a better idea. Also, I think the teaching should have more sessions but less time for each session. For example, a group of about 10 students and 6-8 thirty-minute sessions with a different topic each session. I am also curious about what the students would like to learn more about and what they think is valuable to discuss. I will be doing my follow-up and review next week. I will have the post-survey results and compare them with those of the pre-survey.
· 3.2 Capstone Project Implementation
Travis
This week has been quite eventful for me as I continue to navigate through my Capstone Project. I recently completed presenting my gratitude letters, which was a fulfilling experience. The response to my gratitude survey was unexpectedly positive; I received around 110 responses instead of the 90 I initially anticipated. The survey consisted of 10 questions, both multiple-choice and written responses. It’s been exciting to dig into this data and create mini-reports based on the insights I’m gathering. I’ve also been in touch with my 10 volunteers, all of whom have successfully presented their letters. We’re scheduled to meet this weekend to reflect on the impact these letters have had, not just on them but also on the recipients, which I’m really looking forward to.
However, this week hasn't been without its challenges. One of the significant roadblocks I’ve faced is coordinating a suitable time for everyone to gather and discuss the impact of their gratitude letters. Trying to align the schedules of so many busy individuals has proven to be quite tricky. I've had to send out multiple reminders regarding our meeting, and while I understand that everyone leads busy lives, it can be frustrating to juggle these commitments. Nonetheless, I'm thankful I found a suitable time that works for all of us to engage in a meaningful discussion.
Despite these challenges, I have had many highlights throughout this week. The excitement of receiving more responses to my survey than I expected has been incredibly motivating. It’s been rewarding to see the enthusiasm around gratitude and to know that my project is resonating with others. Additionally, the presentations of the gratitude letters have sparked inspiring conversations among my volunteers, which I believe will contribute greatly to our upcoming meeting. I’m optimistic that, even with the scheduling hurdles, the discussions we have will lead to insightful reflections on the power of gratitude.
As I move forward with my project, I remain committed to overcoming these logistical challenges. I understand that these moments are part of the process, and I truly appreciate the dedication of my volunteers. I’m eager to share the findings from my data analysis and to hear the firsthand experiences of my volunteers this weekend. I look forward to continuing this journey and seeing where it leads!
3.1Discussion.Responses.FacingFear.docx
INSTRUCTIONS: Read and respond to the following two (Ashley and Travis) posts.
Ashley
Dr. Dave continued his breadcrumb quest for joy by traveling to New Mexico for a short adventure film-making course which ended with a mini film festival where each filmmaker’s short film was screened. Dr. Dave faced his fears of rejection and met with editors at the film course to pitch his ideas for an article. Some of the editors were younger than him, and in my opinion, didn’t seem to be “all that” and gave vague non-productive feedback. Reflecting back in his motel room, and feeling low, demoralized, and disconnected, Dr. Dave considered giving up. However, he regained his motivation and tried again the next day with one of the editors, securing a potential lead. Feeling renewed, Dr. Dave traveled back home and shared with his men friend group his experiences and his of fears of rejection, allowing other men to open up about their fears as well.
Fear has been a constant companion of mine. Where I was once fearful of a great many things, today I have many less fears, but some still remain. Reflecting back to college, I had a desire to be a counselor but feared I wouldn’t be taken seriously or that I wouldn’t be good at the job. For a long time I had a fear of not being able to support myself and so I stayed in a marriage far longer than I wanted. I no longer have the fear that I can’t support myself or that I need a man around to take care of things or make me happy. But I still have a fear of public speaking in most any form, interacting with a lot of people, and driving on the freeway. I’m a social person and always wanted to work in health, education, or social services, so I’ve had to suppress my fear of speaking in public or to groups of people. I give presentations, teach some classes, and report out in meetings. I am always fearful before and during these times, but I still do these activities as part of my job.
One of my favorite sayings is, “Feel the fear and do it anyway.” This motto has taken me through many fearful times, by plowing through it with white knuckles. Some things have to be done, whether I feel the fear or not. However, there are many fears that I have overcome. I am not afraid to express my opinion or stand up for what’s right (most of the time). I am not afraid to ask for what I need and want or to walk away from a person or situation that doesn’t align with my values. I think a certain amount of fear in life is natural, as long as it does not interfere with one’s life too much. I would like to try to continue to face my fears and I need to continually reflect on my motives to make sure they are based in love, not fear. I need to make sure that decisions are not made because I am trying to avoid fear.
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" ( New International Version, 1978/2011, 1 John 4:18 . This quotation resonates with me because there are only two core emotions or states of being: love and fear. I believe that in a state of perfect love, fear cannot exist. God does not want us to live in fear or to be discouraged. Christ, the redeemer is there always guiding us and showing us the way of light, if we can quiet the mind and allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within us.
Travis
In the documentary, Dr. Dave's journey is remarkably transformative and highlights the importance of gratitude. Over the course of 12 months, he shifts his perspective, learning to appreciate the freedom he has to travel, connect with others, and lean on his supportive network of family and friends. This practice of gratitude becomes a backbone of his experience, demonstrating how fostering thankfulness can enrich one’s life. A pivotal moment for him is when he enrolls in the Adventure Filmmakers course with Outside Magazine. This decision signifies more than just pursuing a dream; it embodies the idea that faith without action yields little. I admire his resolve to take risks in following his passion and embracing new challenges.
As Dr. Dave navigates the obstacles in his journey, he faces rejection from magazine editors who appreciate his work but challenge him to be more original. It’s a relatable experience, as many of us have faced setbacks that can leave us questioning our abilities. I resonate with his moment of vulnerability when he indulges in comfort food after receiving disappointing feedback. However, it’s his persistence that stands out—despite feelings of fear and doubt, he continues to push forward. This resilience echoes the sentiments found in Deuteronomy and Isaiah about being strong and courageous, and it inspires me to confront my own challenges head-on.
Reflecting on fear’s role in my life, I recognize that since surrendering my life to Christ in 2002, I’ve been able to live fearlessly. I pray for guidance in both small and significant decisions, trusting that God will provide clarity. I look to Jesus' example when he faced fear with unwavering resolve and faith, reminding me that fear can either propel us into action or paralyze us. In my own journey, I’ve dealt with fear by taking practical steps toward my goals, whether through prayer, seeking counsel, or pursuing new opportunities. By actively addressing my fears, I’ve set myself on a path of progress, learning that facing challenges can lead to growth and fulfillment with God's guidance and not without!