Week 10.2 Teaching Philosophy

My educational philosophy falls in line with all of New York State standards.  The state of New York believes that the best way for students to learn is to be challenged.  I push students by developing thought-provoking lessons that demand students to use critical thinking skills in order to make value-based choices.  For example, when students are asked to analyze world events, either historical or current, it may stimulate their mind but may not extend their learning.  However, by asking students to make decisions based off of their knowledge and personal values, they become directly engaged in learning, and are moved beyond their typical zone of comfort.  When students make informed, value-based decisions in subject areas, they can begin to develop their distinct, individual world view to become well-informed citizens.

It is my hope to make students lifelong learners that are motivated by a sense of pride and accomplishment. Students that are encouraged and motivated are likely to be active learners who participate in class. In my experience, motivated students not only push themselves to do their best but they also bring out the best in those around them.

Inquiry learning is the key to success in the major content areas especially science, which I have a particular interest in. When students are given the opportunity to ask questions and then conduct their own research through forms of media, they become that much more involved and excited to learn. I am dedicated to making technology an integral part of everyday class lessons.  I strongly believe that technology can be incorporated into every single subject area in every grade. Being able to incorporate the use of technology is a craft that needs to be finely tuned but it is certainly doable. The web sites children access should be meaningful and rich with information.  Many schools aren’t equipped with enough technology for each student in the classroom. I feel as though this may turn many teachers away from using technology but it should not. There are many methods to utilize technology that does not require each child to have a laptop. By breaking into groups or setting up centers, all students in the classroom will have an opportunity to benefit from the use of technology.

Meeting New York State standards for ELA, Math, Science and reaching these standards through the use of ISTE Standards of innovation in technology education for both educators and students is the cornerstone of my educational philosophy. Knowing that we live in a society where technology is changing by the minute, it is only fair to prepare our students with the skill set to thrive in a technology driven world. By embedding technology into all content areas and using the framework to develop digital citizens who are creative and empowered to be lifelong learners, I am confident that I am educating the next generation in the STEM workforce.

I plan to implement all teaching strategies to help students work to their full potential and have pride in what they do. I would expect my students to reach for the stars and never limit themselves. As a teacher I hope to do the same, always striving to do my best to use the most innovative and current technology techniques. I would like to teach the standards-based materials but also give them the tools to explore their own interests and passions.