Philosophy of Education
My dream of becoming a teacher started with the wonderful elementary teachers I had as a little girl. Today, my values as an educator reflect not only the qualities that made learning so enjoyable for me as a child—creativity, exploration, and innovation—but also the work of Lev Vygotsky and Jean Piaget, who believed that social interaction, meaningful experiences, and discovery are key ingredients in the learning process. My belief that all students can find joy and excitement in learning. Some of the effective teaching and learning tools I like to use within my classroom are :
Ultimately, when the school year draws to a close, I will be able to determine my effectiveness by whether or not my students have met the following goals: 1) mastered the appropriate academic content, 2) gained a passion for learning and a driving curiosity about the world around them, and 3) developed confidence in their the abilities to resolve conflicts and work peacefully with others.
- To engage students both physically and mentally - this can be done by using manipulatives or going on science explorations on the school grounds. The students will work individually and as in groups to do projects, student-led investigations and games. These activities will allow the students to engage socially and they will learn from each other as well as teach their peers.
- My responsibility in the classroom is to provide a structured learning environment that will allow the students to explore new ideas by asking them questions and to stimulate and challenge them with different content.
- Differential instruction in the classroom will be structured to fit students' cultures, prior experiences, and natural curiosities about the community and the world they live in. To accomplish this in the classroom I will need to observe how the students work in the classroom and how they play and socialize. Using these observations I can set up quality lesson plans for the classroom and also allow me to embrace teachable moments.
- It is very important to have effective communication with the students, families and colleagues in order to be successful. All meetings and forms of communication will be focused on giving honest and supportive feedback which include measurable goals and will address and suggestions or concerns. It is very important to me that everyone feels comfortable with communicating to me. Use of technology using a blog or Shutterfly to communicate common information. I would also provide valuable data for parents for their children that can be shared with other educators and doctors if needed.
- It is key for my students to feel successful in the classroom. Together we will create a positive classroom environment based on respect, trust and responsibility. Procedures and routines in the classroom will be enforced consistently. I will model to them what behaviors are expected within the classroom and will plan activities and lessons that maintain and capture students' interests. I really like the motto at my daughters' elementary: KINDNESS, DIGNITY and RESPECT!
- As I stimulate the students to be lifelong learners it is also important for me to model this too. I will further my education by staying informed on current research regarding the best practice in the classroom and will attend professional development and conference opportunities provided by the district. I will work together with my professional colleagues to continue to grow and learn as an educator.
Ultimately, when the school year draws to a close, I will be able to determine my effectiveness by whether or not my students have met the following goals: 1) mastered the appropriate academic content, 2) gained a passion for learning and a driving curiosity about the world around them, and 3) developed confidence in their the abilities to resolve conflicts and work peacefully with others.
