My Philosophy of Teaching

My philosophy on teaching begins and ends with respect. I believe that respect is essential in everything a teacher does and there is no replacement for it in the classroom. Respect helps maintain classroom management in that its very essence is based on modeling behavior of the teacher to the students. With respect in the classroom, there will be teaching and learning happening. The environment will be free of fear and will be a healthy place to conduct learning.

I believe that a teacher, just as a parent, cannot do it all on their own. There is a plethora of people helping out both on center stage along with behind the scenes and the teacher (the conductor in this little example) needs to be aware of all of them as well as use these resources whenever necessary.

I believe that students may need to take baby steps when building up their knowledge bank. Sometimes it takes a few shaky steps before you can stride with confidence and a few more confident strides before you can run (and even fly). I believe that the work being done in the classroom must be valid to the outside world. After all, that is where they are being taught to use it. I believe that Gardiner is onto something with his different levels of learning and that Maslow's work is also important in that you cannot freely think if you cannot hear the thoughts in your head over the growling of your stomach. I believe that the past must be taught so that we can learn from the 'mistakes' which caused such harm and yet brought the human race to where it is today. I believe that every culture has something of value and should be introduced, addressed and discussed with respect. I believe that we should NEVER give up on children. We should not tag or label them - especially before they have had a chance to hit their stride. In doing so, we are restricting them and not giving them a chance to show us what they can do; just reminding everyone of what they cannot do.

I believe that I am young and green and that many of my views will change with time and experience but one thing which I do not think will change is the amazement I feel in regards to children, their learning and how they must be the ones leading the way with an adult only along as a guide on their educational trip.