Teaching Philosophy
Teaching and learning are the main pillars of building any healthy community. Even through any difficult situations, educational institutions persist. The purpose of education is to improve people’s live. Teaching is the act of choosing knowledge or skills, delivering theories, and then relating them to real-life situations. The three main goals of working in the university are to teach students, do research, and serve the community. As an instructor, my mission is to make sure that I maximize the benefit of schooling for my students. My students have a high priority, this is why I usually say: “my students come first.” Since I was 7 years old, I liked explaining things to others. I get so excited to ensure people understand knowledge that is previously unknown to them.
I would like to explain my teaching philosophy. First of all, I like to teach computer science because the field contributes and promotes the growth of any community through technological advancements. The most important goals when I am teaching computer science are that my students learn the basics of the topic then apply and build on that knowledge. I see that students learn best by applying. The most effective method for teaching is to deliver the knowledge, explain, give examples, apply, and finally relate this knowledge to the real-life situations and jobs. In my teaching, I relate the material to real-world problems and future careers to increase students’ learning, as Nilson (2016) was identified. Also, I see that because when I was a student, classes were boring without any real-life examples or applications. The most important aspect of my teaching is the way of communicating and delivering information. I have to be organized and well prepared for classes. My courses consist of lectures, lab exercises, homework, projects, and exams. I like to make everything clear on the first day of the semester, clear class policies and email protocol, assignments, late work policies, and so on. Clear instructions lead to better education. During class, I encourage classroom discussion and student interaction. By facilitating students’ discussion, I ensure that my students deeply understand the material and develop critical thinking as Freire noted (Flinders, 2014). As a computer instructor, technology is integrated into the classroom learning and teaching. I want to pursue meaningful learning, not only simple memorization. I am patient, confident, and compassionate. These characteristics will help my students to easily learn. In my teaching, I promote inspiration and prepare lifelong learners. My students are smart and creative, and I support them in activities outside the class such as “Hackathon” events. I encourage my students to contribute to their community through social engagement such as volunteering. I believe that I have to create a safe and supportive environment for my students to ensure that the teaching process is going well. I want to establish a positive relationship with my students defined by respect, fairness, and dignity. Diverse students are embraced and respected in my classes. I support my students forever, so the students will feel welcomed and safe in the classroom, I want for my students to have the best experience during their learning journey at the college. I want my students to be eager to attend classes. I want my students to feel like attending class is worthwhile, rewarding, etc.
I believe that the best way of assessing students’ learning is the summative method. Group work on projects, homework, and exams are my ways to evaluate my students. As part of making sure that my students get the best education, I strive for excellence in teaching and learning. I will constantly educate myself and improve my materials. I will keep myself updated in the field by attending workshops and conferences. Moreover, I ask students to complete a course survey at the end of each semester. I listen and learn from my students and my peers to improve teaching methods and materials. I believe in rewards to motivate students. However, I see that my students should learn for the sake of learning and become more self-motivated. By the end, there is nothing like seeing my students’ success, and their excitement about their future. I believe in my students.
References
Flinders, D.J., & Thornton, S.J. (Eds.). (2013). The curriculum studies reader, fourth edition. New York: Routledge.
Nilson, L.B. (2016). Teaching at its Best: A Research-Based Resource for College Instructors (4th Ed.). Bolton, MA: Anker.