My Philosophy

Teaching Philosophy

There are many tasks that a teacher has. They present information, guide the learning process, and assess the students’ grasp of the material. Learning is not limited to the classroom. Effective teaching and learning of knowledge and skills can have a lasting impact on the lives of both students and teachers.

It is my goal to:

• Stimulate interest in the material being taught

• Foster critical thinking by the students

• Present the material in a clear and interesting format

• Make the course both challenging and fun

Grading Philosophy*

Grading is a necessary evil for both the student and the professor. The common ground is that both want to see good grades. I want all of my students to get the highest possible grades they earn. Everyone is capable of earning good grades. But some people must work harder than others to obtain those desired grades. Everyone learns at a different pace and in different ways. For the student it is a matter of finding the best combinations of learning techniques and applying them. If certain subjects do not come easily they will require more time and effort. As a student you must commit to the time and effort required.

As a teacher, I am committed to being as fair and impartial as possible. Grading is not about individuals, it is about the work product submitted, whether a report, a term project or a test. Every effort is made to grade anonymously and based solely on the material submitted. The standard is based on what level achievement is shown measured by the learning objectives of the course and the outcomes expected of students. We must always recognize that others look at the grades in a comparative manner. How do they compare to what one should learn in this course, has the student mastered the learning objectives and how well have they learned these objectives? The grades will, like it or not, be viewed by other teachers, transfer schools, accreditation agencies and employers. The grades therefore extend into the future. Institutions and teachers gain reputation for integrity in grading. For any grade to have value the grantor must have a reputation of integrity in awarding grades. To that end I pledge to ensure grades granted by me are fair and can be relied upon as properly representing the level of knowledge of the subject matter of the course as specified in the learning objectives for the course. The grading policy specified in the course overview will be followed during the semester. Everyone has the opportunity and the ability to earn an A.

*adopted from Professor Thomas Goldman, Business Department, Bucks County Community College