Concept Map Assignment

The first actual assignment we have had for this class is the concept map. We used the program Inspiration, which I have used before, but not to the point that I am familiar with all of the features. I personally felt a little intimidated by the assignment since I am not well versed in the use of this mapping software, but I did manage to pull it together. I still feel like I could improve my skills, and looking back now at the concept map that I created, I wish I could find a way to make it look more streamlined and less cluttered. My style is definitely neat and organized, and I feel like my product, while meeting the assignment requirements, looks a little sloppy and chaotic. I did learn a little about this software from doing the assignment, but I know I still have a great deal more that I need to learn, and I hope that I will be motivated to try and figure it out on my own, or seek out online tutorials to better myself.
Overall, I feel the assignment was valuable and relevant to the purpose of this class. I feel that it addresses many of the NETS-T standards because concept mapping definitely promotes creative and innovative thinking, and a teacher who knows how to model using this software is an asset to her students. I also feel that the assignment has helped me to customize and personalize learning activities to address diverse learning styles.

Self Introduction

Hi, my name is Jackie Stilwell-Lugo and I am a 5th year senior. I am taking this class as one of four summer classes in order to tie up loose ends so I can student teach in the fall. I don't work anymore because I got to a point where I really had to dedicate all my time to school. I am married to a wonderful man named Sergio Lugo, and we are expecting our first little baby in February. We are very exited to become parents.
I am, like most everyone else in this class, pursuing a teaching career. My ideal job would be to teach a lower elementary special education class because that is where my heart is. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. When I am asked why I want to be a teacher, it's hard for me to pin down just one reason, so I usually say what I really feel, and that is that I want to be a teacher because I simply can't imagine myself doing anything else. I would even play school all the time as a kid, because that is always how I saw myself, as a teacher.
In my spare time, I enjoy lounging around and watching tv as much as possible, especially reruns of Gilmore Girls. I also enjoy shopping, and I do occasionally indulge in retail therapy. It is something that always makes me feel better, but I do manage to limit myself so I don't go into debt. I also enjoy working out, especially Tae-Bo, but now that I am expecting, I don't do it right now. But, as soon as the baby comes, I'll be back at it so I can be a fit mommy.