Lesson Two: How People Learn

I have the opportunity to work with Mrs. Nelson, a Kindergarten teacher at Canyon Crest Elementary. The learning theory I see her use the most is Behaviorism. During her morning class on Friday she awarded her students popcorn during story time because they had each finished their "popcorn problems" throughout the week. She also selects a student each day who has been behaving well during that week to be the "king or queen" of the classroom. This child gets to wear a crown and cape for the day, acts as line leader to rotations, chooses which tables will be released at what times and gets to sit in the "Authors Chair" as a few randomly selected classmates say what they like most about the student. The chance to get to be the king or queen of the class for the day reminds these young students to behave. Another way she uses Behaviorism is by awarding 3 students that have achieved in some way during that class time a sticker and a chance to send 5 marbles down the marble track. It was so amazing to see each of the students eyes light up as they were chosen. I loved the way Mrs. Nelson utilized rewards, especially with king and queen of the class. Instead of having only tangible rewards she offers rewards that make students have a little bit of power, ownership and make them feel good about themselves.

Mrs. Nelson is very well rounded when it comes to learning preferences. Just within the short 2 hour session of her morning Kindergarten she had the students jumping and moving, pointing to letters on the board and writing words, and singing songs about the weather, days of the week, etc. There was something for each learning style, which engaged the different students she had in her class. She also has taken the time to place each child in the best place for their learning. Children that need more attention are closer to the edges of the tables so she, or her aides, can easily give one-on-one attention to those students. Her class runs smoothly, and the children stay engaged through out their class time, which can be difficult at times for 5-6 year olds!

one.

Through looking at schools to complete my service learning, there were many options to choose from. I decided to pursue my service learning opportunity at Canyon Crest Elementary in Provo, Utah.

Canyon Crest is a school that holds a special place in my heart because it is the elementary school I attended growing up. Located just over a mile outside the mouth of Provo Canyon, Canyon Crest is surrounded by small suburban neighborhoods tucked in the mountains and close to open fields and ranches. The openness makes for a peaceful setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


The students at this school are primarily white, but the hispanic/latino population has grown through the years. Canyon Crest has many programs including PALs and Language emersion. And is a school that offers many opportunities for students to excel. Some of the brightest kids I know go to Canyon Crest. I have not yet solidified with the school which classroom I will be working in, but I am excited for the opportunity to work with a great group of kids!

And it will be fun to run into my baby brother from time to time.
<------(he is in kindergarten)


I think service learning is a wonderful way for us as future educators to get experience in the classroom as well as to give back to the community. It is through our service opportunities that we can gain knowledge.

Engaged Learning is one of Utah Valley University's core themes, and service learning is a way to obtain that hands on learning experience that UVU focuses on. Plus, service learning not only benefits us, but it also benefits the community. Through helping in classrooms we are able to make relationships with children and teachers and hopefully make their world a little bit better.