What is your teaching philosophy?

The teachers I have had who stand out in my memory have some attributes in common: they presented their subjects in a way that caught my interest, clarified difficult topics and led me through complex areas, and put knowledge into context so that its relevance was apparent. These role models have influenced my approach to teaching. I view myself primarily as a facilitator of learning, rather than as an expert who simply delivers information to students. When planning a curriculum or interacting with students, I am always conscious of their different learning styles and rates, what they have already learned, and what they will need to learn in the future. Feedback from students has been vital to the process of growth I have experienced since I began teaching. I learned from them, for example, the pacing of lectures, and effective ways to help them learn in small group discussions. When the teacher's role is to guide, providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information, the students' search for knowledge is met as they learn to find answers to their questions. For students to construct knowledge, they need the opportunity to discover for themselves and practice skills in authentic situations. Providing student's access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being studied creates an opportunity for individual/group discovery and construction of knowledge to occur. Equally important to self-discovery is having the opportunity to study things that are meaningful and relevant to one's life and interests. Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. One way to take learning in a direction relevant to student interest is to invite student dialogue about the lessons and units of study. Given the opportunity for input, students generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than I could have created or imagined myself. When students have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to work hard and master the skills necessary to reach their goals. Helping students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and their environment occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a prudent approach to discipline. When the voice of each student is heard, an environment evolves where students feel free to express themselves. Class meetings are one way to encourage such dialogue. I believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and consistent rules initially and stating the importance of every activity, students are shown respect for their presence and time. In turn, they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment. For me, teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. One of my hopes as an educator is to instill a love of learning in my students, as I share my own passion for learning with them. I feel there is a need for compassionate, strong, and dedicated individuals who are excited about working with children. In our competitive society, it is important for students to not only receive a solid education, but to work with someone who is aware of and sensitive to their individual needs. I am such a person and will always strive to be the best educator that I can be. As I gained experience and confidence as a teacher, I came to regard teaching as my primary professional responsibility. Consequently, I will move into areas of administration such as supervisor, vice principal, or principal. My current position as teacher gave me the knowledge that I needed to be capable to move on to the next level in my career. My effort to effect changes in the educational curriculum places me where I can have an influence on the public education.