Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection

NAEYC Standard:
STANDARD 6. BECOMING A PROFESSIONAL
Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs identify and conduct themselves as members of
the early childhood profession. They know and use ethical guidelines and other professional standards
related to early childhood practice. They are continuous, collaborative learners who demonstrate
knowledgeable, reflective and critical perspectives on their work, making informed decisions that integrate
knowledge from a variety of sources. They are informed advocates for sound educational practices and
policies.

Brief Description of Evidence:

In January 2015, I became certified in first aid and CPR. I think being certified in both of these is extremely
important when working with children. In December of 2014, I met with a director of a daycare to do my
practicum there. When I left the meeting, I also got a job while also doing my practicum there. I had to
watch several videos, before I could start working. I watched a video about Montessori and their standards.

Analysis of What I Learned:

I learned a lot about Montessori and how to facilitate children without always directing them. I learned
about taking a step back and letting children discover and learn without a teacher standing behind them
and telling them what to do. I also learned how to do CPR and first aid, which I was briefly familiar with
beforehand. I learned the importance of an interview and having interview skills. I did not expect to be able
to get a job, when meeting with the director about my practicum. I think the Montessori beliefs also go
along with the theorist Lev Vygotsky. He believed that children learn through hands-on experiences and
that teachers have a role in childs development. I also believe that teachers have a role in a childs
development.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard:

Through my meeting with the director of a daycare, I identified and conducted myself as a member of the
early childhood profession. I currently work as a teachers aide at a preschool and I use ethical and
professional standards related to the early childhood practice every day. I must conduct myself in a
professional manner and I have learned to do this through my practicum and working. I am a continuous
and collaborative learner because I am constantly meeting with the head teacher and with other
employees. We collaborate on ideas and on the direction we need to go to make sure all children are
learning what they need to for future education. As an aide, I also get the chance to make my own
informed decisions about childrens behaviors and their education.