Philosophy of Education

My aspiration to become an elementary school teacher came from my belief that young children are priceless and full of potential. I want to have a positive impact on my students, so they in turn will make a difference in the lives of others. As an early childhood educator, my motivation, sincerity, and joy are characteristics that are appreciated and respected. I have chosen a career in teaching because I value education and I believe that I find purpose in educating and encouraging young minds and hearts.
     I believe that children should be given freedom to explore, learn in their own ways and form their own beliefs. I believe that children learn best when they interact with the real world and can see how their learning is relevant to their lives. I believe that kinesthetic and linguistic activities should be incorporated into a classroom, as well as activities involving the other six learning styles to help all types of learners benefit from lessons. As I teach, I carry out lessons that are a combination of both teacher-directed and student-directed learning. I try to be fully aware of how the students are relating with one another while they are leading their own activities, such as book clubs and group research projects. At times, I assume my own role so students can learn by watching, other times I facilitate, and other times, I simply observe and intervene only if necessary.
    I welcome diversity of all kinds into the classroom. Each of my lessons incorporate more than one way of learning, and I include all eight learning styles into my teaching. I assign group projects for those who learn well with others, and include solo work for students who learn better alone. I also allow students to share about themselves and their families so that those who differ from others, in race, culture, and special needs will feel more understood. Through my own caring and interested example, I encourage my class to embrace the variety God has created in our world!
     I follow Vygotsky’s theory of Social Constructivism in my classroom. Because I believe that the social settings in which children develop greatly impact their learning, I create a classroom environment that is warm and supportive. I encourage students to help one another, and I provide enough scaffolding so that students can come to so much understanding and self-proficiency that they are filled with glowing pride.
     I include families in my classroom by inviting parents to participate in class celebrations and productions. I also welcome parents and caregivers to help with class activities. In order to maintain open lines of communication, I make myself available through email and I notify families of their child’s achievements. I encourage them to be a part of their child’s learning and I provide ideas for how they can be involved in their child’s education at home.
     My belief is that education is an extreme blessing to the world! An effective education instills in students a yearning for more knowledge and motivates students to use their understanding to make the world a more beautiful place. My goal in life is to be an excellent teacher who loves students for who they are and challenges them to seek truth, and embrace adventure, and their God-given purposes!