Second week reflection
The second week of the Mortenson Center Associates Program began with an exciting visit to Allerton Park. As we walked through the park’s lush greenery and admired the breathtaking architectural marvels, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Learning about the rich history of Allerton Park and its transformation from a private estate to a public space dedicated to art and education was truly inspiring. The serene environment provided the perfect backdrop for self-reflection and appreciating the importance of connecting with nature in fostering holistic learning experiences.
On the next day, we delved into the intriguing realm of personality styles through Everything DiSC. It was a fascinating experience to discover my own personality traits and understand how they influence my interactions with others. Learning about the “C” style personality shed light on effective communication and collaboration within diverse teams. I realize d the l significance of embracing different perspectives and leveraging the strengths of each individual. This newfound understanding has already begun to strengthen the bonds with my fellow associates, creating a more inclusive and harmonious environment within the program.
On the same week we visited the University of Illinois’ Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL). Through various workshops and sessions, we explored the resources and services available to support educators and enhance student learning experiences. From discovering innovative instructional technologies to understanding effective teaching methodologies.
During my visit to CITL/SCD at the University of Illinois, I had the opportunity to delve into various aspects of cutting-edge education and technology. Under the guidance of Robert Raid, I explored the world of programming, where I gained valuable insights into different programming languages and their applications.
Furthermore, Ava wolf teaching and learning approach emphasized collaborative problem-solving and ideation. I actively participated in group discussions and brainstorming sessions, which fostered creativity and teamwork skills.
Witnessing the evolution of flexible classroom and learning spaces was truly remarkable. The incorporation of adaptable furniture, interactive displays, and technology-enabled environments created an engaging atmosphere conducive to effective learning.
Engaging in hands-on learning activities such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and VR explorations expanded my practical skills and allowed me to experience the potential of these emerging technologies.
The instructor studio provided a supportive environment for educators.
Lastly, we had the privilege of exploring the Grainger Engineering Library.
