Pre-course Reflection

Setting Intentions for Your Pedagogical Journey

This self-reflection activity is designed to help you pause and consider your current beliefs, practices, and aspirations as you embark on a course focused on pedagogy. 

By grounding yourself in your experiences and values, you can approach the learning journey with curiosity, intention, and an open mind.

Materials Needed:

• A notebook or journal

• A pen or pencil

• A quiet space for reflection

• Optional: calming music, a timer, or natural objects like stones or leaves for grounding

Take your time with each prompt, giving yourself space to reflect deeply. If possible, set aside 30 minutes for uninterrupted thought. You may choose to write your responses, draw them, or record an audio reflection.

Grounding Yourself 

Begin by centering yourself in the moment.

1. Sit comfortably and close your eyes if you feel comfortable. Take three deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth.

2. Reflect on why you chose the field of early learning and care. Picture a moment that affirmed your decision to work with children.

3. When you feel ready, open your eyes and write or draw one word, phrase, or image that represents why you do what you do.

Reflecting on your Current Practice

Answer the following prompts. There are no right or wrong answers—this is a space for honest reflection.

1. What do you value most in your interactions with children?
   Think about how you approach your role as an educator. Do you see yourself as a guide, a partner in learning, a teacher? What else?

2. What is your current understanding of pedagogy?
   How would you define it based on your experiences so far? What does it mean to you in your daily work?

3. What do you feel confident about in your practice?
   Identify areas where you feel strong and capable, whether it’s creating engaging environments, fostering relationships, or something else.

Setting an Intention

Take a moment to synthesize your reflections. Consider this course as an opportunity to deepen your practice and refine your pedagogical approach.

Write a short intention for your journey in the course. This might be a sentence or two, such as:

"I will remain curious and open to new perspectives as I explore this course."

"I will bring my authentic self to this course and honor the values, knowledge, beliefs and education that guide my work with children."

Keep these reflections handy as a touchpoint throughout the course, revisiting them when you feel stuck, inspired, or need a reminder of your intentions.

Connecting to Your Image of the Educator

1. If there were no barriers, what kind of educator would you be? How would you want your team, children, families, or colleagues to describe you?

2. What is one question about practice that feels important to you right now?

3. What personal strengths will help you on this learning journey?