Philosophy of Education
Education is one of the oldest and most important functions of any civilization. It is the way we have moved forward, with each new generation building on what was learned in the generations before. Education itself has also evolved, from informal learning at home to the modern school system we have today. The goal of education is to foster student growth and to prepare students for their futures. Educators have the awesome responsibility of designing and improving the education system to meet the needs of all learners, in their academics and in many other areas.
The role of a teacher is to provide an educational experience that is relevant, engaging, and comprehensive. I work to encourage students to appreciate the value of learning, critical thinking, and creativity. As a technology teacher, I recognize the important role that technology will play in many of my students’ future careers. I also believe that technology can both reinforce their strengths and help them overcome weaknesses. I see the ISTE Standards for Students as a valuable guide, encouraging students to become Empowered Learners, Global Collaborators, Creative Communicators, Computational Thinkers, Innovative Designers, Knowledge Constructors, and Digital Citizens.
There is a billboard currently in my community with this Dolly Parton quote: “Find the good in everybody.” I strongly support this philosophy, both for how I approach teaching, and what I would like to impart to students. It guides my style of classroom management, and I never give up on trying to support even the most challenging students. At the beginning of each school year, I talk with my students about kindness and good citizenship. Even though my subject is technology, I believe social and emotional learning has a place in every content area. Teachers have the power to inspire students to build confidence in themselves, and to be a positive influence on the world around them.
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities teachers face is encouraging a growth mindset in students. Too often, students struggle with a topic or even an entire subject and then are inclined to give up and stop trying. We as teachers need to counter that negative attitude through caring for our students and helping them build resilience in the face of adversity. We need to show them, through words and through grades, that we always value effort and process, even when the product falls short. The students should know that we are on their side; we are there to help them.
My philosophy of education is that schools have a very important responsibility in our society, to give young people the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to make the world a better place. Outstanding teachers who are caring and engaging will always be the most important factor in achieving that mission. We help students grow academically, creatively, socially, and in so many other ways to become our future.
Sources:
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). (2024). ISTE standards: For students. https://iste.org/standards/students
PassItOn.com: The Foundation for a Better Life. (n.d.). Dolly Parton: Find the good in everybody. https://www.passiton.com/inspirational-sayings-billboards/86-dolly-parton