Professional Hopes and Goals

 

 

 

 

Professional Hopes and Goals

            This course has changed my perspective on diversity and equity because my thinking was quite narrow before taking this course.  I have now learned that diversity covers various genres such as race, disabilities, gay, lesbian, transgender, and ageism.  This course has provoked my growth personally and professionally and the information I consumed will change my life forever.  I now understand that learning about cultures is more than just recognizing holidays, food, and cultural dress.  You have to look at the deeper aspects of a culture which involves exploring the lifestyles, behaviors, and beliefs.

·       One hope that you have when you think about working with children and families who come from diverse background.

It is my desire to portray a welcoming spirit to diverse families and to discuss what hopes and dreams they have for their children.  I would invite the parents to be involved in the shaping of the classroom by bringing in books, music, and artifacts to represent their culture.  Children learn best when they can see themselves in the learning.

·       One goal you would like to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice

I would like to see the early childhood field make diversity, equity, and social justice the first priority because fair and just education cannot be rendered unless these factors are put in place.  Every teacher should have to take diversity courses and all schools should provide diversity workshops as a part of professional development.  Universities should expose pre-service teachers to diversity classes because it will help them to understand the population they may be teaching.

      I would like to take this time to thank the instructor and my colleagues in this course for inspiring my thought processes with hearty and supportive discussions.  This was a very rich class because we exchanged a wealth of information about ourselves and we are now equipped with the skills to advocate for diversity and justice for all children and families.