My Philosophy of Education

Although I am still learning and forming opinions, I have already come to many conclusions about what I think education should strive to do and accomplish. Over the next few years, I may change or add to these beliefs, but currently, I have a decent idea of what I think my goal as a teacher should be. I draw from several different philosophies, such as pragmatism and post-modernism, but I do not believe just one or even two of these philosophies correctly define my beliefs.

            I believe the purpose of education is to not only facilitate learning but also apply that learning to future endeavors after school and job opportunities. We must, as a society, realize that the formative years are when a student decides what path they will take in life, and it is up to educators, with the help of parents, to help a student reach that decision. That said, I do not believe a student should be pushed into or discouraged from pursuing whatever field of study they wish. If a student wishes to be a biologist, they should be given opportunities to explore that field before making a final decision. The same goes for art. If a student wishes to be an artist, they should be encouraged to do so, but should also be given a chance to experience what that decision will ultimately mean. This can be done through job shadowing, research papers about their interest, career fairs, vocational schools, extracurricular activities, clubs, and much more. I believe it is part of the job of an educator to prepare a student for life in the “real world.”

            I believe the role of a teacher is to be a group leader. An ideal classroom for me, is one in which the share of ideas, opinions, and information is encouraged. It is one in which students work together toward the common goal of learning. I believe a good teacher is one who uses lessons and activities that reach every different type of learning style and is able to meet the needs of any students who learn differently than others. The lessons should not only be informative, but fun and interactive. In my opinion, students who are encouraged to learn in their own way and who are given a certain amount of control over their education, develop a stronger desire for learning. For example, if a class is given a list of short stories and is asked to pick three from the list to read and analyze in class, those students will be more responsive and interactive with the lesson because they chose it themselves. The same can be said for activities. If a teacher gives a student several options in a classroom, and allows the student to choose, that student will, in my experience, respond much more positively.
            Assessment should be varied and constant. I believe everything a student does inside a classroom should be assessed in some way, both formatively and summatively.  I believe assessment is another area in which students can be given control over their education. For instance, if a class of twenty students breaks into groups of four and is given the task of analyzing a poem, each group would undoubtedly come up with something different. The class would then get together and exchange ideas. These different responses and answers should (reasonably) be on a test. If a student knows that his or her contribution could make its way onto an exam or quiz, he or she will be much more likely to participate in group discussion.

            All students are different, and all students should be treated fairly. That is, each student should be given what he or she needs. If a student needs extra help, that student should receive it. I also believe in a school which promotes the beauty of diversity in all its forms, and combats bullying within its walls. Curriculums should focus equally on contributions of various different ethnic groups, religions, and lifestyles. This is a step toward not only ending bullying, but also toward ending prejudice.

            My philosophy is still changing, and will likely continue to change as my experiences change. What I believe, however, is based on my personal moral code and my current experiences in a classroom, especially from the point of view of a student. I hope to be able to live up to my own goals and create a classroom that is focused on the student.