Reflection on Area of Expertise

Learning is life long process. We choose a particular learning area by keeping in mind the employment opportunities so that we can secure our future. I was interested in Geography and Economics. I have completed my bachelor with Geography and Economics. Finally I have done Masters in Economics. The optional subject in my master degree was Agricultural Economics. My aim was to apply the principles of learning to our family occupation which is agriculture.

In the beginning, I was enthusiastic and curious to become an expert in agriculture business. My family also supported and encourage me carry on my way of farming. I was mainly responsible for providing the knowledge of different crops that can be grown economically and suitable according to the geographical conditions of my region . I applied my knowledge of marketing to the occupation and did a wonderful marketing of vegetables and fruits that was grown in our farm. 

In 2002 I changed my mind and decided to opt teaching as my profession. So I enrolled into Bachelor of Education for teaching in secondary schools.I wish that my students should also learn that how to apply the learning in their daily life. After completing my Bachelor of Education I joined the school in 2004. I always used the knowledge of the content and my experience in agriculture to engage my learners. There were individual differences but they shared the same traditions and beliefs. 

I have never taught at tertiary level but observer teaching in different departments during my course. I found myself at a stage where I can use my previous experience of farming and secondary teaching. As a tertiary educator I need to act as a facilitator and support my learners to become self directed. My learners are adult and they are always interested in deep learning which is useful to them. There are individual preferences for learning. Many of them prefer experiential learning. So I need to devise new strategies , design my lesson in such a way so that my learners can get maximum exposure to learn by doing. I have to be culturally competent to understand the diversity. Ultimately my aim will be develop a common culture for my learners which will respect all the individuals and allow them to express themselves.