Reflection #5

Reflection #5: Wrapping Up

Over the course of the semester, I have been able to work with the JJK Jackie-Joyner Cruise Center and the National Great River Center. This experience has been one of the most meaningful experiences that I’ve had. During this project I was able to understand water conservation on a deeper level. Through critical thinking I was able to communicate ideas and concepts to K-8 students that increased their knowledge of environmental practices. Being able to work in these environments allowed me to build stronger connections with both students and staff that work in environmental education. One of the most valuable lessons that I learned was how to work with students who were in the process of learning the science behind local water systems. At JJK, I was able to help strategize engaging ways for students to learn how these conservation practices influence their daily lives. The process of planning hands-on activities with my group was the most interesting. I was able to give them feedback and help them with cultivating their project after interviewing educators. It can be said near the day of the event, we had to make sure that we were prepared. Even though there was a slight miscommunication, everyone was able to set up their lessons easily. Even though my responsibility was to only conduct research, I was able to engage with the kids by visiting and asking questions. I had one kid willing to tell me everything that she learned from one of the lessons that she attended. Seeing the expressions, excitement, and joy made this project all the more worth it. Working with the National Great Rivers Center taught me the importance of community involvement. Talking with staff members and environmental educators showed me how complex river systems are and the benefit that they have on our environment. Through this process, I learned a lot about myself when it comes to cultivating a deeper understanding of problems. I was able to connect with people directly and be able to creatively problem-solve to translate scientific concepts to K-8 students. I found that I work well with a set of goals and objectives. It can be said that these approaches led to the work I was able to achieve throughout the semester. It could be said that I have also been patient with this process; sometimes it was overwhelming to cultivate this event. At times, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out since we don’t work with JJK on a daily basis. Through this process I had to be adaptable as well many times. By this, I mean my project now is what I imagined it to be in the beginning. I had different information that I was planning to add; however, I’m happy with the information that I provided and decided to change while doing the project. I believe these adjustments made my informational poster even better. Overall, this experience helped me grow academically, socially, and professionally while making me more confident in myself. It also confirmed that I’m able to do work in the future that has the ability to commemorate a community.