Helping my Students to Gain and Apply Knowledge

My main goal as a teacher is primarily to provide students with the knowledge that will help them further excel in their everyday lives, but also to teach students to apply the knowledge they gained and take advantage of opportunities that will enrich their lives. Many times, students learn better when they feel a certain subject is relevant in their lives. I feel that it is important to have a curriculum that is based on the student’s interest, experience and capabilities. Having a textbook integrated in a curriculum is important, but a student will have a better understanding of the subject area when experience is involved. Although there are many different techniques to education, I feel that the philosophy of progressivism and essentialism best fits my style and belief of teaching. These teaching philosophies focus around student needs, democracy, and the basics of education.

I feel that the materials presented in class should be thought provoking enough where students can exercise their critical thinking skills. Working in groups and interacting with other students should be encouraged because this way, a student can learn how to collaborate with one another but also learn how to accept different viewpoints. When teaching English, it is important for students to have conversational experiences with one another because many times students would focus only on grammar and can potentially be problematic. I believe that oral speaking is the most important part of learning any language however, students who focus solely on grammar often lack skills to carry on a conversation because they are unable to effectively communicate their thoughts orally. Students must be able to not only understand grammar but to also practice true ...

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...ment, which ultimately shape us as we grow.

While growing up, one of my strengths was being able to get along with many different ethnic groups. At an early age, I was exposed to a wide array of different cultures since my school was very multicultural. Even to this day, I enjoy learning about new cultures because it allows and helps me to understand their way of life. Learning about new and different cultures other then my own makes me appreciate and respect others more than ever. Collaborating with people of different backgrounds allows me to work with a wide range of groups, which in return allows me to understand certain ethnic group’s approach on life. I appreciate the opportunities to collaborate with people of diverse backgrounds because it allows me to gain insight into other cultures and better develop my interpersonal skills socially and professionally.