Observation Discussion Part 1

• What types of observations did my peers make that were similar to mine? How and why are they similar?

I wondered if it was strange that I hadn't experienced a ton of technology being used during my observation hours or if it was just because I was in an elementary school, but it sounds like a lot of the other students didn't see a ton a technology being used either. 

• What types of observations did my peers make that were different to mine?  How and why are they different?

Some of the other schools my peers observed had very different programs than what are available through the district I am at. I heard mention of a fashion and textile class, and a new media arts class. The district that I am observing offers regular art, creative crafts, and photography. 

• Did you find the discussion with your peers of your observation experience helpful to you as a future art educator?

I don't know that the discussion will impact me much as an art educator, but it was certainly interesting. Perhaps the most useful part of the discussion was when we talked about students on one project, but having all different ability levels. I may use that the idea some day in my own classroom. The example was if you give the students a still life and they are all required to draw a glass bottle from the still life, let the students that have stronger abilities move forward with the rest of the still life, but for the students that struggle a little more, let them focus on the glass bottle. 

• In your next observation hours to complete (for this class or others), will you view things differently? If no, why? If yes, why?

I'm not sure if my view will have changed, but I want to ask more about the special education program at my school. I'm also looking forward to observing a high school level class to see how and if technology is used or controlled.