Beginning Year Two #doctoralpursuits

As I complete year one of my studies, I need to take a moment to reflect on where I am so far. I originally began this blog as a writing assignment in my first class and have for the most part continued to write and update it weekly, well; in the last few months I have slacked off to about monthly. It was my goal to sit and devote Sunday evenings to writing something new in regards to my studying as I explore possible dissertation topics. I do know and understand that the task of coming up with a research question is not one to take lightly and I also know that as I learn the idea will change and grow. I have also learned through talking to other doc students that its a good idea to write about and publish some of my ideas in regards to what topics I think I want to explore in my research. I have submitted a manuscript and am waiting on feedback on that and will continue to send in proposals to present my work at conferences both locally and statewide. I think it would be cool if I write something that I can use in my actual dissertation.

I am still exploring the read-aloud and now I want to look at the link between reading aloud to children, comprehension and vocabulary instruction in early elementary classrooms which has lead me to the topic of close reading. Close reading allows the instruction of both ideas (vocabulary and comprehension) to be looked at with a closer lens. This is where the beauty and luxury of my job come into play. As I work with teachers I am wanting to explore and research the best practices that they display when teaching reading/language arts. I am wondering how many teachers use reading aloud daily with children and how they conduct their vocabulary and comprehension lessons. I also want to see how many are familiar with close reading. I will do action research with the result of this information and then progress from there with my dissertation topic. In my coaching conversations with teachers I want to understand how and why they use the best practices they use to understand how best to serve them. It is my goal to help improve teachers classroom instruction which in turn improves student academic achievement.-- the ultimate goal.
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I am coming into year two of my studies excited about what I am learning and am beginning to see how theories, concepts, and ideas correlate to each other. I am looking forward to what the next year will bring. I am also working on how to apply what I am learning to my job and become a go to person for more of the specialist that I work with. It is time to venture out and share the learning I am receiving with others on plateforms both inside my workspace and out. I know and believe that your "gift" will make room for you and if I am hiding it then its not even good for me. It is also a goal of mine as I get into year two of my doc studies and year three of my job as a specialist to seek out opportunities for growth and for opportunities to share my knowledge with others in as many ways as possible. I am a thought leader and my thoughts are meant to be shared.

​Thank you for reading. I would love your feedback.