Philosophy of Education

I believe that although children may have different learning styles, they are all capable of learning. Each child in a given class is unique in terms of cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences, therefore, they do not all learn best in the same way. It is the job of an effective educator to get to know her students, and discover their individual needs. In order to accommodate all the various learning styles in a classroom, I believe that lessons and activities should be planned with Gardner's multiple intelligences in mind. Hands on activities should be used as well as textbooks, to enrich the curriculum. Cross-curricular activities should be employed so that children who excel in one area can use that strength to enhance learning in another. The creative arts should have a place in every classroom. Multiple intelligences work together, not in isolation. Students need to develop an appreciation of the aesthetics in life. For without beauty, music and art, life would be less rich. In addition, I believe that varying assignments must be used throughout the course of the year. Different learning styles require different testing strategies. All of the multiple intelligences must be touched upon, providing the opportunity for all students to succeed.

I believe as a teacher, you get what is expected from your students. If children are held to high standards, they will achieve to the best of their abilities. If a teacher has low expectation, and demands little, that is exactly what their students will deliver, very little effort and very low results. On the other hand when students are expected to do their best, to try, to work hard and behave well, I believe students will give you their best efforts. In order to remind students of what is expected, there needs to be a set of class rules. Children need discipline and control in the classroom. I believe in a democratic classroom. Students should take part in creating the rules for their class and the consequences of breaking these rules. Children should have some control over their environment. An effective educator ensures the learning environment is a safe, comfortable place for all of her students. A child should never feel scared or self-conscious in a classroom. They should feel free to be themselves without worries of judgment around every corner. Encouragement and praise should be heard more often then criticism and discipline should never be long distance. When discipline is necessary it should be a one on one communication so as not to embarrass the student. If a student's action must be corrected, they should be given a time to react. Teachers are responsible for teaching more than the three R's. It is important that social skills, including conflict resolution, be taught in our schools.

Teaching involves setting goals. Short-term goals include things like getting students to pass certain tests, to do well in their studies and behavior, and even make sure they get promoted to the next grade. While these are necessary and important, I believe it is just as important to work towards long-term goals. Inspiring a love of learning and encouraging children to become life-long learners is among these goals. One of the best ways to achieve all of these goals with your students is by setting an example. I believe it is important for teachers to continue their education, attend conferences and seminars. To remain effective educators we must be life-long students, forever discovering new information that will help us better serve our students and ourselves. We must be willing to learn from our students and encourage them to learn from one another. Teachers must keep open the lines of communication. It is our job to welcome family members of students into our classrooms to help bridge the gap between school and home. Educators must communicate with each other. Teachers need to share ideas and information. Great educators remain flexible and willing to adjust, to make certain opportunities are given that allow children to meet their maximum potential. Children must know that their teacher appreciates them both as students and as people.