My Educational Philosophy- Sept. 2010
Every teacher has certain beliefs and ideals about education that shapes what kind of teacher they will become. It’s those beliefs that can determine whether the teacher will be effective or not in creating relationships with students and helping students learn all they need to be successful in life and future endeavors. I believe that my views on education will not only aid in becoming the best teacher I can be, but help me bond with students and create a respectful relationship during my educational career.
I believe that teachers must first and foremost have a passion for teaching. Without this passion, teachers will not be able to effectively convey the message that the students are supposed to learn. If teachers are excited to come to work every day, and willing to put in the effort to make their lessons enjoyable, students will be more likely to be excited for school also. And after all, if the students don’t come to class, or aren’t excited to participate in activities, there is no point in having teachers at all. It is this passion: to create a safe, exciting and energetic atmosphere, that I strive to have in all of my classrooms.
I believe that using creative approaches to education is beneficial in the classroom. Using technology or implementing creative activities is an important tool to utilize in the classroom. Students today are more knowledgeable about technology, more than ever, and tend to get bored very easily. By using this technology, instead of fighting it, and coming up with exciting ways to learn the curriculum, not only makes class engaging and useful- but also fun! This modern approach to the classroom will reach students in a whole new way, making it easier and more accessible to learn than ever before.
I believe that having a mutual respect in the classroom is important in fostering learning and relationships. Having the respect between teacher and pupil, whether it be a general respect, or respect for diversity and different learning abilities, makes the classroom a safe environment for learning. When teachers and students are able to respect each other and be comfortable with each other, this makes discipline issues dwindle. If students feel they are an important member of the classroom they are more likely to engage with other students and complete tasks at hand. It is this mutual respect that creates lasting bonds between teacher and student.
Although my beliefs about education and teaching reach further than I can convey; these three beliefs: passion, creativity, and respect, top the list. The number one reason why students are at school are to obtain an education; but if while we are teaching the curriculum we can create meaningful relationships, have an exciting classroom and create respect among peers and staff; that is when teaching is brought to a whole new level. I want to be a teacher that steps above and beyond in my classroom.