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My Philosophy

Throughout my graduate studies, I have learned about various educational theories and philosophies. These, coupled with my life experiences as an individual and a parent, create the foundation of my teaching philosophy.  

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When my adult children were small, I bought a book entitled Preschool Art: It's the Process, Not the Product by MaryAnn Kohl.  We had so much fun making messy art. The subtitle and its meaning have always stuck with me and even informed my decision-making as a parent and aspiring teacher. Learning is messy - we need to strive for progress not perfection. 

Image by Suzanne D. Williams

My Teaching Philosophy

Building trusting relationships with and between students will foster a safe learning environment where students support one another, work together, and take academic risks. Students should be taught how to be independent, critical thinkers who respect and consider other perspectives. Teachers should build a love of learning in their students by modeling enthusiasm for learning, releasing responsibility to students, offering choice, and relating lessons to students' every-day lives. Open communication with students' families/guardians will build a team of support between home and school.

 

Image by Iuri Albuquerque

Educational Philosophies

My personal teaching philosophy is built on elements from the following two established educational philosophies. I view these as a foundation on which student growth can take place.

Essentialism

  • Common core of knowledge to be systematically taught

  • Core may change, not a fixed canon

  • School prepares students to be valuable members of society​

Progressivism

  • Education should focus on the whole child

  • Focus is on the learners, not the teacher

  • Active learning, experimentation, engagement

  • Learning rooted in learners’ questions and process

  • Student choice and collaboration

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Image by Dustin Humes
Image by Mark McGregor

Educational Theories

My personal teaching philosophy is also informed by these essential elements of this educational theory. I believe when students are appropriately supported, they become independent learners.

Social Constructivism

  • Scaffolding

  • Cooperative learning

  • Critical thinking to construct meaning

  • Communication, peer interatcion essential

  • Teacher as facilitator

  • Inquiry based learning

  • Relationships

  • Discussion & debate

  • Academic risk taking in safe environment

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