My Philosophy of Education

My Philosophy of Education

Several experiences have influenced my philosophy of education. Some of these experiences have been good, others have not, but they have all proved invaluable in shaping my methods of teaching. As a non-traditional student, I have learned many lessons since being out in the “real world” that have changed my opinions about learning and teaching. I believe in Social Reconstructionism, Progressivism, and discipline in the classroom.

I desire to become a high school teacher because I feel that students at this age needs a positive role model and someone they can speak to without talking down to them. I want to encourage my students every step of the way, as they bolster their confidence in themselves and their ability to make the right decisions. Students at this age do not understand the importance of their education and take it for granted at this stage of their life. My father instilled in me a passion for learning, at a very young age. I want to share this enthusiasm with my students.

I would like to specialize in science because of all the scientific discoveries that are being made today and yet to come. As a Social Reconstructionist, I believe the curriculum should address the global issues and social problems that science can create. Some discussion topics for my class would include animal testing, cloning, genetic research, DNA research, water and air pollution, and overpopulation. My students would research the topic and its effects, prepare a paper, give a speech, and lead the class discussion of the topic sharing their own viewpoint. This process would develop my students’ critical thinking, problem solving, and decision-making skills.

By employing class discussions, cooperati...

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...ial in the lives of their students. I want to be a positive influence in the development of every student’s education. Being an idealistic person, I want to be so much for my students; a teacher that shows caring, compassion, a helper with their problems, and a positive role model. After my students leave my classroom, I want them to know more than just a few vocabulary words that they memorized for a test. I want to provide my students with a solid foundation that they can continue to build upon long after they have left my classroom. I never want my students to later struggle to fill in the gaps of their education because I was an inadequate teacher. Above all else, I want to pass on to my students my love and joy for learning, and help them to see that education is the key to their future endeavors.

"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" by Gordon Lightfoot.