Chapter 1

Terms that I need to understand as a Dyslexia Therapist from this chapter about working together in collaboration consultation, and teams are listed below.

Collaborate means to labor together or work jointly in cooperative interaction to attain a shared goal.

Collaborative ethic is a philosophy of shared spirit and interdependence among those who are working together.

Teamwork is an action where people work together cooperatively to achieve a shared goal.

Consult is where you seek advice.

Co-educator is an educator who collaborates, consults, teams with, co-teaches, or networks with the other educators.

Co-teaching is where two or more teachers plan and implement instruction and monitor student achievement.

Our school district has just began co-teaching. It is a great idea! I have witnessed and heard that it is difficult sometimes because there are many opinions that arise when it comes to what the students specifically need. Seeing this first hand has made me see how important it is to work together as a team and be less self-sufficient. We are there for the students, not for our self-worth. Therefore, when I become a Dyslexia Therapist in the future I will be aware of what their opinion is and my own to be a better partner. Other ways that I could become a better co-teaching partner is be on board with both my partners ideas and my own. Having a great relationship with your team teacher makes the day go smoother and less stressful. Having a great relationship and being a great team makes our ideas become stronger and more efficient for the students. Sharing resources with one another and trying out the resources to see which ones work and which ones do not will benefit both teacher and student. I will never be afraid to ask questions. Knowing the true meaning of these terms and putting them into action makes us a better educator for our students. I will find ways to demonstrate the value of consultation, collaboration, and teamwork. I will use these as tools to plan and collaborate instruction. I will encourage my coworkers to share knowledge with one another about any issue to establish a solid framework to discuss any issue that may be occurring amongst each other or what is not working in the classroom. Interacting in a positive manner with every teacher in the building that I will be co-teaching with is what I will strive to do on a daily basis. As a new teacher, I have not been afraid to ask for help. It is okay to not know everything. I want to learn and grow through this process and become and better educator and gain more knowledge for my students.