Teaching Philosophy
Each child is a unique individual who needs a caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. As an educator, I strive to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing a curious, reflective, engaging and open learning environment. There are three factors that I believe are important in establishing such an environment, (1) the teacher acting as a facilitator, (2) allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and (3) promoting respect, kindness and compassion towards others and themselves.
Being a facilitator in the classroom means leading students to a new understanding within themselves. My main focus is to stimulate thinking , encourage explorations and be a connector to real life examples. To help learners actively share their experiences so that they learn from each other is truly a rewarding experience.
Nurturing a child's curiosity and creativity is another important factor in a good learning environment. Curiosity is truly the most vital tool a child can bring to school. It not only motivates students to learn, it helps them become observant and reflective as well. In my class, I believe that every single moment is a teachable moment . We turn everyday routines into adventures , do outdoor learning, or even go beyond our day's topics to investigate and find answers to their questions.
Compassion requires children to have respect first - respect for themselves , to one another and to their environment. It is important to teach students kindness by instilling positivity , avoiding putdowns , accepting differences, discovering similarities, listening to each other and supporting each other in reaching their goals. Cultivating kindness, compassion teaches students the tools they need to be successful adults.
For myself, 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.
My Classroom
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Student Learning
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Education Technology Philosophy
As an elementary classroom teacher, I see technology as a way to engage learners. Everyday teachers like me are faced with the challenge of empowering and motivating such a diverse set of young digital citizens. This challenge is the biggest motivator for me to use technology to help my students make deep , authentic personal connections with their learning. Technology for me is a way of bringing lessons to life and transferring knowledge in one’s fingertips. It encourages lifelong learning and proactive thinking for both the teacher and the learner as well. As Francis Bacon said, “Knowledge is Power” – I believe that education technology is the essential factor that will give our students the power to change , mold and give hope to their future.