Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
NAEYC Standard:
STANDARD 4. USING DEVELOPMENTALLY EFFECTIVE APPROACHES
Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs understand that teaching and learning with young
children is a complex enterprise, and its details vary depending on, childrens ages, characteristics and the
settings within which teaching and learning occur. They understand and use positive relationships and
supportive interactions as the foundation for their work with young children and families. Candidates know,
understand, and use a wide array of developmentally appropriate approaches, instructional strategies, and
tools to connect with children and families and positively influence each childs development and learning.
(NAEYC, 2010)

Brief Description of Evidence:

During the summer semester of 2015 during my ECED 243 Cognitive Curriculum course, I created a
documentation board. The documentation board displayed positive relationships and interactions between
young children while supporting the Indiana Foundations. I set up a water environment that was inviting and
developmentally appropriate for young children. By setting up this environment the children were able to
construct their own understanding. This opportunity allowed the children to play together, collaborate on
investigation and projects, and talk with peers and adults while enhancing their learning experience.

Analysis of What I Learned:

Through completion of this documentation panel I learned that using effective strategies and tools for
young children helps to broaden their thinking. I worked with children on goals that were established by
families, I worked with the children one-on-one and small groups. I used mirrors so the children could
discovery their shadows. The children filled ice trays with water and within a few hours they were able to see
the different conversions between water and ice. Meaningful experiences that are intellectually and creatively
stimulating and invite exploration and investigation, will engage childrens active involvement. I learned by
providing a rich variety of materials, challenges, and ideas that are worthy of childrens attention. I now know
that teachers set clear reasonable limits on children and apply those limits consistently.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard:

Gardner believed that intelligence encompasses the ability to create and solve problems, create products
or provide services that are valued within a culture or society. He also stated that the learners role is unique. In
this Documentation Panel the learners have developed their own personality. Through spending time
researching developmentally appropriate water activities, I feel more informed that my teaching practices are
developmentally appropriate for young children and will positively influence each childs development. I will
use skills that include the ability to adapt curriculum, activities, and materials to ensure full participation of all
children.