"In teaching others we teach ourselves" - Proverb
My teaching philosophy consists of the words I live by, and it is based on the letters of the word "teaching" itself:
Time management
Engagement
Answering and listening
Create a comfortable learning environment
Help at all times
Influence in a positive way
Never stop growing
Goal setting
There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a student succeed. In order for students to do so, the words above have a profound effect on success.
Time Management
Time management is important for both students and teachers. I believe the use of class time is crucial. Teachers must know how to organize lessons and activities, yet students must learn how to manage their time, in and outside the classroom, for it is an important skill to carry throughout life. Teachers must set a good example with their time management in order for students to do so as well. It is also important to keep time in mind when organizing lessons and units, and teachers must be able to plan around events. Teachers must also know the appropriate amount of time to give all students to complete their work. Time must not be taken for granted in the classroom, since school is the place where students grow.
Engagement
It is important that each and every student is involved in every day’s activities. All students deserve the chance to let their voices be heard. A classroom should consist of a community where students ask questions to further their knowledge rather than sit silently at a desk. In order to get students involved, exciting activities are necessary. Not all students like the same things, so when it comes to reading, students must take their students’ preferences into consideration. Yes, some works must be taught, but they must be taught creatively in ways students will want to get involved. Keeping students engaged helps keep them on task and motivated.
Answering and listening
The way teachers and students communicate in the classroom is one of the most essential aspects of student learning. Teachers must be approachable, and they also must approach students in the right way. It is important for teachers to tell the students exactly what they expect when it comes to listening and answering in the classroom. Encouraging words should always be said. Communication is also important between teachers and parents because the parents should be involved in all aspects of their child’s education. Teachers must word questions in ways that each student can understand, and guide them when answering. Teachers must contribute to discussions, but they also need to listen to the student’s words, thoughts, concerns, etc., and take them into consideration. Communication is key.
Create a comfortable learning environment
In order for students to express themselves and their opinions, they must feel comfortable in their environment. A teacher’s classroom needs to be a welcoming place where students feel safe. School environments are also social environments, so students should feel comfortable expressing their social skills in a school setting. Both teachers and students should be respectful; it is important for teachers to act professional and for them to establish a safe, positive learning environment.
Help at all times
It is crucial for teachers to be available at all times. Some students will not reach out for help when they need it, and it is the teacher’s job to aid students in every way they can. An easy way to communicate such as e-mail or Google Drive should be available for students. Teachers are constantly busy, but they should set aside time each day to help students if they need it. Teachers should also give helpful tips on how to read a work, how to improve an assignment, etc.
Influence and Inspire
Being a positive influence is important to get students to work to their full potential. A teacher’s influence can make all the difference. Being a confident, caring teacher encourages students to work and to act the same way. Teachers should show how much they love their job and what they are teaching. Teachers need to care about their students’ education as well as their future, and it needs to be shown day in and day out. Challenging and supporting students throughout their time with their teachers aid them in the long run. Teacher’s should be an inspiration to their students, for it will carry into their future classes and their future careers.
Never stop growing
Just like their students, teachers should continue to grow. There is always something new to learn, and teachers should strive to figure it out. Teachers never stop being students because they are constantly learning new ways to teach along with innovative ideas. In order for students to meet the Common Core State Standards, they need to be open minded. Teachers must also keep themselves up to date with things that interests their students; therefore, it will help with engagement. Updating on technology is also necessary in the classroom. Teachers should continue to develop throughout their teaching careers.
Goal setting
Not only is it important for students to set goals for themselves, it is important for teachers to set goals for their classroom as a whole as well as each individual student. Teachers need to create plans with their students on how to achieve their goals. It is important for students to dream big and work hard to get where they want to go, in and outside of the classroom.