Early Childhood Teaching Philosophy
My personal teaching philosophy is based on the ability for a teacher to be versatile. I believe teachers are expected to fill many roles - both in and out of the classroom. Throughout any given day, a teacher can play the role of an educator, a parent or guardian, a nurse, coach, personal support worker, social worker, counselor, and others. I think being a successful teacher requires us to perform many duties that we do not always expect to have to do. There is an element of surprise present every day that requires us to be able to think on our feet. My philosophy reflects my belief of what makes a successful teacher: I believe it is important to be flexible yet firm, and fun yet friendly with my students. I think it is important establish a good rapport and a mutual feeling of trust and respect with each and every student. However, a successful teacher will develop these relationships while maintaining a strong sense of professionalism in every scenario. I also believe it is important fulfill the role of supporter to all students, whether that occurs in or out of the classroom. I think it is important to know about students’ hobbies and activities so I can be a cheerleader or counselor when necessary. I also think it is extremely important to know students’ academic strengths and weaknesses, not only to be able to adapt teaching styles to suit their needs, but to communicate to the students and parents effectively and to create an optimal learning environment for each student. I think a large part of being a teacher is also being an advocate for our students – speaking up when they need extra help or attention and helping parents recognize and understand different learning styles and coping methods. On that note, I think it is extremely important to recognize students when they do something well, not only when it is time to discipline them. I would never want a student to feel invisible unless they are “getting in trouble”. On the same principle, it is important to know which students will respond best to positive reinforcement or other methods of constructive criticism or critique. I will always want my students to know when I am proud of them for getting the hang of a new skill or doing well on a test, no matter how small it may seem. In summary, I truly believe that teaching should encompass things and projects that are fun, but most importantly, effective. I think being an effective teacher is the most important goal for me at this point in my career. |
Physical Education Teaching Philosophy
I believe that… · All students are capable of participating and in physical education class, and as teachers we must create a positive learning environment that is suitable for all students to do so. · All students learn differently, whether they are visual, auditory or kinesthetic learners. As teachers we must find ways to create learning environments that are adaptable for different learning styles. · Learning occurs best when students are engaged and focused on the learning process, and this is most apparent when learning is fun. · Students should receive at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity. · Students need to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to lead an active, healthy lifestyle. · Creativity and critical thinking are key factors in both teaching and learning, and reflection of one’s creativity and critical thinking for both teachers and learners is essential for personal growth. · Learning is a life-long process, and involves the use of transferring skills learned at school to real-life situations. Therefore, as a teacher, I… · Will create a positive, safe learning environment for all students, regardless of difference in ability, age, reading level, or other factors, and therefore provide all students with the opportunity to participate in physical activity during phys ed class. · Will involve students in their learning process through self and peer assessment, teacher-student conferences, and other means, as necessary. · Will create activities for students to develop and explore their own creativity and critical thinking skills. · Will create activities that are fun for students while incorporating essential game skills that are required for students to learn as dictated by the Alberta Program of Studies. · Will provide students with the tools and skills necessary to turn physical activity into a daily occurrence and the knowledge needed to develop a positive attitude towards a healthy lifestyle. · Will create relationships between what students are learning in the classroom and real-life situations in order to aid students’ understanding of life-long learning. |