Eliza Herter

My name is Eliza Herter, and I am graduating from Brock University’s Concurrent Education program in April 2022 with a Bachelor of Physical Education (Honours) and a Bachelor of Education. I am a Health and Physical Education Specialist, with a second teachable in Biological Sciences at the Intermediate/Senior level. A foundational aspect of my personal teaching philosophy is working to foster a positive sense of community through building relational connections, as it provides a strong sense of belonging- a key ingredient in fulfilling experiences in physical education. I am a firm believer that if us as educators can create meaningful connections within and to physical education, students will be more inclined to maintain their involvement in activity, translating to developing a generation that engages in healthy decision making across the lifespan. Building a sense of community is greatly driven by the relational aspect of being physically active and feeling connected to those around them and oneself, a key component of the IA4L Program. 
I became involved with the IA4L Program during it’s second phase, where I had the opportunity to implement the InterActive Function2Flow Model in my teaching practice. I was able to see first hand how this model translated to increasing student awareness of their connection in a variety of aspects (teacher to student, student to student, student to self). Being aware of these connections through interactivities helps to boost student learning, participation, and enjoyment- all contributing factors in not only their success and enjoyment, but continual involvement in physical activity across the lifespan. I have maintained my involvement within the project though taking on the role of a research assistant.
My involvement with the IA4L Program has enriched my knowledge as a teacher and I am excited to continue to explore other ways to enhance social emotional connection through movement into my career! 

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