Hey guys. This is just a few thoughts on my philosophy of teaching English. It is a part of a project I did at the conclusion of my undergraduate degree at Indiana University. Feel free to take a look if you would like to know what sort of teacher I will be during this school year. As always, constructive criticism is encouraged!
Philosophy:
It has been 4 long, and at times arduous, years at IU and the School of Education, and in that time my philosophy of teaching has matured greatly. Thankfully, as my time as an IU student comes to a close, I feel as if I am finally able to accurately articulate what kind of teacher I will be in (hopefully) the very near future. I know this with a certain degree of certainty because this semester I have had a lot of experience in the classroom, and I have been able to see what I struggle with, what bothers me in terms of student behavior, and what I am able to do really well. I’ve learned to think about pacing and to think through every lesson for possible issues that take away from the lesson I’m teaching. In short, I think that I have begun to learn to develop patience with the students and curriculum, but also the hard work and creativity it takes to be a successful teacher.
I know now that I will be a teacher that doesn’t get flustered when students struggle. Instead, I will also be thinking about creative ways to attack each day. From what I have seen, students really appreciate that effort. I believe that students behave better and are more manageable when they are actively participating in their education. While this is true, it is because of solid planning by the teacher. I have seen that not only does the content of my lesson plan have to be right on, but also my timing, my transitions, and my methods of accountability have to be there as well. If not, even the most fun and creative lesson will fail miserably. I will be a teacher that gives his students options as often as I can
because, to me, the medium is less important in terms of assessment than the ability that students are able to demonstrate. So, if the assignment is a paragraph to be written at home, why not set up some sort of online medium? You’ll see that I include such a medium at the bottom of this document.
I also desire a classroom where students can respectfully express their ideas. I support academic conversation and that isn’t possible if students are afraid to share what they think for any reason. For that reason, I will take a tough stance on any kind of disrespectful speech from either myself or students. For myself, I’ll do my best to never let it happen, and if for some reason it does, (because who’s perfect?) then I will make it a priority to make the necessary amends. I don’t believe I can ask students to be respectful and accountable if I’m not willing to do so myself.
Finally, I want to be the kind of teacher who cares. Of course I will care, but I will also do my best to make sure that students know that for sure, without a doubt. This means being involved in the school community. Going to plays and athletic events, being available before and after school, tutoring when necessary, and listening when students want to speak are all the types of actions that I think accomplishing that goal. I will be friendly. I won’t be their friend, but I think that deep down students would rather have me be a role model than a friend anyway. I think being a friendly teacher is important as well as an active classroom environment because it breeds friendly relationships between students. It models kindness, and I don’t just want smart students, I want smart students who are well-rounded and kind individuals. Therefore, I believe you will find that my expectations and procedures are designed to build community as well as incentivize learning.
