Philosophy of Teaching & Learning...
The following tenets encapsulate a philosophy of teaching and learning I wrote in preparation for an interview I had with Humber College in Fall 2010. Years later, they are as central to my practice as ever and continue to serve as guiding principles that underpin all aspects of my professional practice - in and out of the classroom. As I continue to amass experience teaching at the post secondary level and as I work toward the completion of my doctoral studies, it is inevitable that my philosophy of teaching and learning will evolve. In the meantime, I am confident that a commitment to the core values expressed below will translate into learning experiences that inspire a passion for instilling in children, the same values I seek to impart upon future educators. It is with this in mind that I move forward, excited about the opportunity to grow – both personally and professionally – and as I remain focused on the journey that lies ahead, I am thrilled by the prospect of discovering within, a deepened understanding of myself as both a teacher and a learner!
I Believe...
I believe that an effective teacher acknowledges that students possess individual strengths and needs that ultimately influence their classroom experience and their response to the learning process.
I believe that a good teacher maintains a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning themselves.
I believe that approaches to teaching should reflect 'best practices' in the field and should always be premised upon current research.
I believe that both teachers and learners should be critically reflective of the content to which they are exposed, as well as of their personal ideologies, values and beliefs, all of which ultimately influence the teaching/learning process.
I believe that I have as much to learn from students as they do from me and have a vested interested in tapping into the wealth of experience they bring to the classroom.
I believe that curriculum should (wherever possible) inspire a commitment to social justice.
I believe that a good teacher maintains a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning themselves.
I believe that approaches to teaching should reflect 'best practices' in the field and should always be premised upon current research.
I believe that both teachers and learners should be critically reflective of the content to which they are exposed, as well as of their personal ideologies, values and beliefs, all of which ultimately influence the teaching/learning process.
I believe that I have as much to learn from students as they do from me and have a vested interested in tapping into the wealth of experience they bring to the classroom.
I believe that curriculum should (wherever possible) inspire a commitment to social justice.