Shirin Mapar
S. Mapar - Sapere, saper essere e saper fare
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Becoming a lecturer in professional practice allowed Shirin to appreciate even more the confrontation with colleagues but also with students in practice, thus enabling her to experience an important opportunity for professional and personal growth.
What is your educational background and what do you do at the Department of Education and Learning / University of Teacher Education (DFA/ASP) of ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ?
​â¶Ä‹I obtained my Bachelor in Pre-Primary Education in 2022 and today I am a teacher at the Minusio kindergarten. In my section, as a teacher of professional practice (DPP), I am responsible for welcoming and accompanying students attending the DFA/ASP in their practice.
What did you particularly appreciate about your practical experiences at ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ?
​â¶Ä‹The practical experiences offered me a great opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally. I was able to mobilise a body of knowledge and skills, which I then applied concretely within the classroom. The allocation of different practice locations during the training was also an important opportunity to observe and experience different learning styles, as well as numerous classroom contexts; this determined the construction of my professional identity in terms of knowing, knowing how to be and knowing how to do.
Which aspects of the training were most useful for your profession?
​â¶Ä‹The constant presence and discussion with DPPs during my professional practice. Being able to draw on their skills and knowledge, have the opportunity to observe their actions, rely on their observations, constructively use their feedback and interview moments were a huge learning opportunity.
What are the expectations of male and female students that you observe most often with regard to professionals like yours?
​â¶Ä‹They often require opportunities to observe our actions, to know, understand and comprehend how best to behave in certain learning or practical life situations. They also manifest the need to have ‘their own space’, to have direct experience with the class and to be able to put their own notions and skills into play, always accompanied by regular feedback.
What exchange takes place between the DPP and the trainer?
​â¶Ä‹The central element remains the constant exchange with colleagues, but also with students in training. In order to enrich our professional baggage, it is essential to have figures such as the professional practice lecturer. It is a very important role that requires a great deal of commitment and perseverance, but also brings a great deal of gratitude and richness to all those involved.
The trainee teacher brings his or her own identity, personal background and a lot of novelty; I see him or her as a ‘breath of fresh air’! His presence in the classroom, for us DPP, is valuable as we have the opportunity to change our point of view and observe the dynamics of the class group from another perspective.