"Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming." Coach John Wooden
Educational Philosophy
I chose this quote by Coach John Wooden because these words have served to inspire me to be and do my best in all situations. As such, the quote best describes my educational philosophy demonstrated in my teaching style regardless of the courses I teach.This educational philosophy is daily embedded in my physical education classes and student leadership activities.
The main reason I am so driven to teach physical education is not just because I truly respect the field and find it fun, but because I have a true passion for guiding students to live a more productive and fulfilling life. I strive to help each student recognize his/her uniqueness in order to build a similar personal philosophy. Teaching physical education gives me a wonderful opportunity to develop student confidence, motivation, self-esteem, individuality, problem solving skills, and technology skills for the 21st century. The goal for my students is to ensure they can apply the academic knowledge and technology skills learned in class in their future endeavours and share their knowledge with others.
Similarly, teaching leadership skills to Associated Student Body (ASB) students also challenges me to share my learned educational philosophy in hopes of inspiring the students to excel for personal and peer gain. Working together, with each student to be and do his/her best, benefits everyone. I see growth and fulfillment as the students work together on various endeavors to make ASB activities fun and fulfilling. Whether they are planning a lunch-time, grade level competition or planning for the Winter formal students are learning to be and do their best.
Thus, my personal philosophy aligns with pragmatism philosophy and in turn links with progressivism. My classes are designed so students can apply their knowledge and share their experiences into the lessons and therefore develop ownership of their education. My teaching methods are focused on hands on problem-solving, project development and experimentation. Using pragmatism and progressivism to complement their learning, students are encouraged to collaborate in small and large groups to apply their knowledge to real life situations. Peer mentoring/teaching and student collaboration is an important strategy often used in my lessons. Students better understand skills (pragmatism) and information when they are teaching it to their peers (progressivism). This type of teaching also allows students to put the content in their own words and expressions which in turn promotes a positive and encouraging environment.
Inspired by Coach Wooden’s words, my experiences in life have shaped my teaching strategies. I strive to demonstrate my best and hope that the students recognize and realize this approach in their efforts to be and do their their best. I love my job and the ability to help students find a passion for being active. Like Coach Wooden, John Fitzgerald Kennedy held a similar philosophy. The quote that comes to mind is, “Intelligence and skill can only function at the peak of their capacity when the body is healthy and strong.” Seeing students work together and use their knowledge and skills in order to live happier and healthier lives is the reason I teach.
Acknowledgement: Sandra Kipfstuhl- Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me. You have helped me grow personally and professionally.