Week 3- Assignment 3

I am currently in my 4th year of teaching. In the morning hours I teach7th & 8th graders Hebraic Studies. In the afternoon I am a Title One teacher for 4th-7th graders in which I am responsible for teaching the girls Math & Literacy.

My Teaching Philosophy:

My philosophy of teaching has evolved over the past few years of my teaching experience. As I reflect on my beliefs about education, I feel that my mission as a teacher is three-fold. To create a positive and growth-oriented teaching setting, to spark learner enthusiasm, and a commitment to be the most effective and professional educator possible. To accomplish this, I apply a variety of pedagogical methods grounded in my beliefs about teaching and learning. My strategies are based on important educational principles including; professional curriculum, inclusive learning, instructional theories, integrated technology and assessments.

Creating a growth-oriented environment:

My method of teaching begins with intense preparation to create a professional curriculum which sets prominent level academic goals. Every classroom includes unique types of learners that vary in abilities and in learning styles. A professional curriculum is an essential component to ensure an inclusive learning experience. Whether the instructional approach is based on a behavioral model (direct instruction, mastery learning), a cognitive model, or a constructivist model (cooperative learning), a teacher must create a curriculum that caters to all types of learners. The classification of the seven learning styles is based on Howard Gardner multiple intelligence's theory which shed light onto the fact that there are multi style learners. I believe that my job as an educator is to ensure that each student understands the materials being taught. To accomplish this goal, I focus on the needs of each student individually. In my well thought out lessons I bring in objects to cater to the spatial and kinesthetic learners. For the auditory-musical learner I might include songs in my lessons.

I believe that a teacher is not a giver of knowledge but rather a guide for the student. To encourage that I create a student-centered classroom. While teachers are definitely an authority figure in a student-centered teaching model, teachers and students play an equally active role in the learning process. I truly believe that knowledge gained through active participation is knowledge that will leave a lasting impact on an individual.  To actively involve my students, I use dynamic and interactive methods, including: give and take discussions, activities and games. For example, when I teach, I form the class into pairs, present a few questions, then let them do the brainstorming. I might even allow a student to prepare a lesson to teach to the class. In my classroom I use a positive approach to behavior management -an approach based on positive reinforcement and rewards as opposed to criticism and punishment.

Sparking student interest:

An integral responsibility of a teacher is to spark students interests in the material being taught. I think that learning can and should be fun and that students who are active participants learn much more than those whose participation is mostly passive. I welcome a group of students who are actively involved, thinking and questioning the material presented to them. To captivate my students’ interest, I make sure to present curriculum that will be of interest to the students and which also makes learning relevant to life. I will incorporate class projects, group work, individual work, and hands-on learning to garner participation.

Another very effective way to capture and motivate students is by integrating technology in the classroom. I feel that technology rich environments breed success. I use technology both to promote active learning and as a motivator. Instructional technologies that I use to actively involve my students in my lessons include games and slide presentations.  I also use technology as a reward for good behavior.

High Standard Education:

I believe that teaching is a lifelong learning process. It is a continuous commitment to be the most effective and professional educator possible. To excel in teaching, one must continue to learn. As a teacher I remind myself that I am not perfect! I am eager to hear constructive criticism from my supervisors, and colleagues. I make sure to read and update my knowledge in the field of Education. I also make sure to attend professional development workshops which enables me to build upon my previous experience and grow as an educator.

 Another thing I implement to ensure that my teaching is effective is continuous assessments. I strongly believe in the benefits of a teacher who accurately assesses understanding of course content among her students. Firstly, this gives the teacher an understanding about that which hinders the students’ progress. A teacher must recognize her students’ strengths, identify the weaknesses and do everything in her power to help each child blossom. After properly assessing students, a teacher can now help the student succeed. Another benefit is that updated knowledge of students’ performance sheds light as to how effective my teaching is. It enables me trouble shoot and implement changes when needed. Because of this, I continually use a firm foundation of assessment basics, from alternative types (rubrics, checklists, portfolios, presentations, etc.) to the traditional exams and tests.

 I also think that an effective teacher provides students with lifelong skills. This includes creating a safe and equitable environment where each child can blossom into mature responsible adults. To accomplish this, I ensure that there is no bullying in my class by teaching students important social skills which include speaking in kind to one another. I teach my students that humanity consists of many individuals with diverse issues and needs. My students learn to accept and respect themselves, their peers, their teachers and even more important, disabled people. I teach my students problem solving skills by encouraging them to use their minds and be independent. By teaching them to be responsible for themselves I am giving them tools for life.

As I continue teaching I know that new experiences might change my philosophy in teaching. However, in my classroom today, based on my teaching philosophy, I strive to implement strategies that create a collaborative and growth-oriented atmosphere.

These tools will hopefully gift my students with success at a bright and beautiful future.