Title:

Secondary General Music Methods Prezi

Date:
Spring 2014
Artifact Description:
The following artifact is a Prezi that I created as a final for my Secondary
General Music Methods class. The final had to be at least ten minutes in
length and had to include a discussion about a relevant topic of choice. My
Prezi includes content based research, statistical information, and thought
provoking topics about education, public legislation, and funding in
education.
Wisconsin Teacher Licensure Standard Alignment:
This experience best aligns with standard six: CommunicationThe teacher uses effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques
as well as instructional media and technology to foster active inquiry,
collaboration and supportive interaction in the classroom.
This best aligns with Standard six because during this speech I used a
Prezi to incorporate both verbal and nonverbal cues to express my personal
opinions and facts that I researched. Some nonverbal cues included facial
expression, appropriate pauses, and hand gestures. Likewise, I gave weight
to certain words to show emphasis, increased and decreased my volume as it
deemed appropriate, and increased and decreased speed in the same manner.
I used instructional media (the Prezi) to teach my peers about my
chosen topic. During the presentation my fellow classmates and teacher were
being taught visually and aurally at the same time. This was done by logging
onto my Prezi account on the classroom computer and clicking the space
bar when I was going from bubble to bubble. Finally, my presentation was
on a topic in which civil discourse could be addressed, thus I presented both
sides equally At the end of the speech and Prezi I presented them with some
words and a video from the famous composer and music education advocate
Jack Stamp about the accuracy of music and its importance in our every day
lives.
I am more competent with this standard because I was able to
incorporate both verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to
exemplify my information. Also, I was able to create a safe, questioning,
and conversational environment that didnt lead to feelings being hurt or
values being questioned. Communication is of the upmost importance and in

our era of technology use we need to be able to establish ourselves in

communicating with others in both a technological and physically social
standpoint.
UW-Platteville School of Educational Knowledge, Skill, Disposition Statement
Alignment:
This experience best aligns with KSD3.e:
The candidate has the ability to make appropriate adjustments to his/her
instruction and accommodates students questions and
interests while being aware of student differences and difficulties, and can
use a wide range of resources and strategies to meet all
students needs in the classroom.
This experience best aligns with KSD3.e because of the
compromising views of education itself. My topic of discussing public
education and funding delved into and against some people personal values
of what should be done in education. Therefore, I had to tread lightly when
discussing certain topics that I myself was passionate about because other
students may not agree with me. I did my best to adjust my vernacular and
lessen my blatant passion for what I believed in so that I my colleagues
would feel comfortable with contributing to the conversation and asking
questions. I researched both sides of opinion so that my questions could go
back and forth to initiate discussion. I used many videos and statistical
information to have the class have a better understanding of the topic
I am more competent and aware of others point of views because of
this final project. This experience taught me to understand and accept the
important aspect of civil discourse. A good portion of our society lives in
constant disagreement and that is the facts of life. We must be able to
understand each other as best as we can as well as communicate efficiently
and thoughtfully.
Secondary KSDs:
KS1.d. Demonstrates knowledge of resources
Reflection:
What I learned about teaching/learning:
After presenting this very difficult topic, I found that as I presented and
asked questions of varying degrees, that people respond to positivity. They
may question why you believe a certain ideal but will listen if you are polite.
Everyone has a different sense of living and conviction so in order to break

down walls and be progressive we have to step into someone elses life. If
we dont lead the charge in practicing civil discourse, how can we expect
our students to be productive and thoughtful citizens? I have also learned
that it is important to know the demographics of the room in which you are
teaching. By knowing this you can use certain words or adjectives that can
relate to every student and will be able to relate and communicate with
students.
What I learned about myself as a prospective educator:
I learned that when I am teaching, I must be able to effectively communicate
and accommodate all students. It is essential that I practice a plethora of
methodologies to myself and to the students so that I always keep myself
ready for any situation that comes my way. The use of technology and
knowledge of the environment will greatly help the efficiency of my
classroom. I find that I am able to communicate in many different ways that
include verbal, nonverbal, academic language, and common vernacular. I
strive to improve upon my idea of communication with others and the only
way in which to improve is to continue practicing and engaging with others
around me.