My Philosophy of Education

I teach because I deeply believe in the truism, "What you are is God's gift to you; what you then become is your gift to God." I live this truth by striving to develop my own talents and abilities to their full potential, and by promoting the same in others. Teaching provides the perfect opportunity to accomplish both of these goals simultaneously. Thus, I view teaching far beyond the classroom. Rather, it is an opportunity to serve and to grow by sharing with others. It is a privilege.

In a school setting I must join my Philosophy of education to that of Saint Joseph of
Calasanz, founder of the Pious Schools and order of the Piarists. His contribution to the field of education have made a tremendous difference in our world. He organized and systematized a method of educating primary school pupils in an era when no one else was interested in public education. He believed that the society can be transformed by the implementation of a systematic education based on love and knowledge.

My educational philosophy centers around the students and the way they learn. I am a person who is best associated with the constructive teaching style. I believe that students learn by doing or by playing an active role in their learning process. Hands on activities, adapted lesson plans, and critical thinking are a few ways that I feel allow students to learn better and easier. The community, school, parents, and teachers are all very important aspects of helping children get the proper education they need to be better prepared for their futures.

Constructivism is also closelytied to the multiple intelligences of Howard Gardner because the recognition of varying learning types is crucial to creating a constructivist learning environment. Constructivist teachers mustvalue students' needs and interests. As an ESL teacher I have become conscious of the fact that individual students have preferred modalities of learning, that what is good for one is not always good for everybody. I've had to adopt a more flexible outlook upon the process of language teaching and adapt my ways to the needs of my students. Therefore, I have to use a variety of methods to stimulate children’s interest and encourage student involvement.

It is also my philosophy that by providing students with a friendly, supportive learning environment, I can help reduce their learning anxieties and therefore boost their learning progress.  This is based on Krahen' s "affective filter hypothesis". which states that anxiety, stress or  tension may hinder a learner's ability to learn (Krahen l982).  When students are relaxed, they will be able to focus on learning.  In addition, when they have no fear of embarrassment or negative critcism, they will be more willing to express their ideas and participate in class.

In conclusion, I understand that as I experience different classroom and students, my theories will also change.  Recalling different experiences from being a student and a teacher will greatly influence my philosophy of education.