HILARY HANNA
A Glimpse into Science and Mathematics Education and Postsecondary Leadership
Below are the descriptions of classes I took while earning my Master of Arts in Education at Michigan State University.
Summer 2013
EAD 867 - Case Studies in Educational Leadership
Instructor: Dr. Marilyn Amey
This course explored leadership practices from a variety of perspectives. Through group work we analyzed several case studies in relation to educational leadership. The cases provided insight from a variety of demographics across the United States of America. I discussed with my peers the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of each type of leadership. Overall, I was able to reflect back on my own preferences and exhibitions of leadership.
TE 848 - Writing Assessment & Instruction
Instructor: Lisa Hawkins
This course explored writing through reflection of current methods and hands-on practice. I chose to take this course so that I could be sure my own writing instruction was on par with current practices. When I read Best Practices in Writing Instruction by Graham, MacArthur, and Fitzgerald, I found that in fact I was teaching properly in my classroom. However, one benefit of this course was to actually take the time to do my own writing. I was able to write poetry, narratives, and reflections as my students may be asked to do.
Fall 2013
ED 800 - Concepts in Educational Inquiry
Instructor: Dr. Steven Weiland
This introductory course was an opportunity to exchange ideas and beliefs about education. The self-paced study dove deep into educational inquiry, classroom-based or teacher research, ethnographic participant observation, and psychological theory. Personally, this course helped to propel my current teaching practice. It led me to many resources based on inquiry teaching as well as view education through the eyes of others.
TE 855 - Teaching School Mathematics
Instructor: Dr. Michael Weiss
This course added on to my knowledge of the popular teaching practice of inquiry. As a student, I was challenged to rethink the way math is taught in the elementary school. Teaching School Mathematics introduced me to "Guided Math," an approach which I still use in my classroom. Providing students with more opportunities to discuss math with each other is my approach to mathematics.
Spring 2014
EAD 850 - Issues and Strategies in Multicultural Education
Instructor: Dr. Riyad Shahjahan
This course provided a deeper understanding of difference and diversity and interconnection between knowledge production and meaning. In this course I was also able to practice self-reflection and critical analysis of current practices. Multicultural education is one of my favorite areas to study. This course helped remind me of the vast differences that each individual must overcome to be successful.
TE 861A - Teaching Science Understanding
Instructor: Dr. Alicia Alonzo
This course allowed me to put new information into practice as well as reflect on current practices. I was able to further explore the idea of project-based learning in my classroom. Ultimately, I increased my knowledge of inquiry-based learning. The most beneficial part of this course was the ability to have peers and professionals examine my proposed lessons.
Summer 2014
EAD 822 - Engaging Diverse Students and Families
Instructor: Dr. Muhammad Khalifa
This course was much like EAD 850. However, this course allowed me to further apply the knowledge that I gained in the previous course. One meaningful assignment in this course was to attend a public event in the city where I teach. At that event I was to examine the happenings from a multicultural perspective. I learned that if diversity is not present, it is often not considered in planning.
TE 831 - Teaching School Subject Matter with Technology
Instructor: Dr. Doug Hartman
This course was one of the most beneficial courses in my masters program. Instructor Hartman gave us the opportunity to explore with technology that we could actually use in our classroom. The best part was the hands-on experience I gained from the weekly assignments. I have taken several new technologies into my classroom for use with students. For example, I now have the courage to ask my students to blog about their projects.
Fall 2014
EAD 860 - Concept of a Learning Society
Instructor: Dr. Steven Weiland
This is a course I am currently taking. It is my hope to explore the idea of an evolving educational system. I hope to learn more about learning beyond the K-12 system as well. Finally, I hope to be given permission through the course readings to allow students to be individuals in our society rather than products in an assembly line.
ED 870 - Capstone Seminar
Instructor: Dr. Matthew Koehler
This course has allowed me to pull together all of the aspects of my masters program. I am creating a professional portfolio online which will set me apart from my peers. So, far I have been able to briefly reflect on my courses and technology skills. I hope to use this practice to encourage the people that I teach with to further their own learning.