Philosophy of Education

A teacher is someone who is knowledgeable in content areas as well as personal areas. In order to be an effective teacher one must first be knowledgeable in the area he or she is teaching. Without this knowledge, one cannot properly instill the items students need in order to be successful in the world of academia. It is extremely important that educators be conscious in their teachings in regard to content and instruction. In addition to being knowledgeable in content area, a teacher must also be knowledgeable in personal areas. Teachers should know their students and be aware of their backgrounds as to accommodate their learning needs and ability to be successful. In order to do such, teachers must possess certain skills.

First, teachers must be leaders for their students. Every classroom needs a leader and that leader must be the teacher. Being a leader also means being a manager. Classroom management is the key to having a successful classroom. Being a leader also means to set the right example. As a teacher, the right example must be modeled daily for students to see and follow. Second, teachers must be adaptive. Students learn in different ways and because of that fact it is important as a teacher to make sure lessons and activities are adapted to fit the needs of each student. Third, teachers must be collaborative. It is important to work with parents and former teachers when it comes to students. A large part of success in the classroom comes from working at home. Parents must be aware of their child’s assignments and homework. One of the most important elements of being a teacher is communication. Positive communication is the key when it comes to parents. It is also important for teachers to get the parents involved; allow them to come to class and see what their child is doing at school. With a positive relationship between teacher and parents students are more likely to be successful in the classroom.

The curriculum is a checklist of expectations of students depending on grade level. In addition to teachers being aware of the curriculum, students must be aware of the curriculum in order to monitor their progress. Having curriculum standards posted in the classroom allows students to see what is expected of them by the state, the administration, and the teacher. Students need to be eager to learn in order to successfully master each standard. Teachers must encourage students every day to be excited about learning, this includes preparing enriching lessons and activities that will stimulate student interest and enhance student learning. Teachers also need to make students aware that they are fully capable of meeting and even exceeding standards. It is the responsibility of the teacher to be adaptive for students who show potential of falling behind, as well as for students who exceed expectations. Students must be aware of their responsibility to do homework and listen during instruction; having a list of tips for students who have trouble staying on task in the classroom will be helpful.

Each student that enters a classroom will be structured differently from one to another. Teachers must have a positive attitude when students enter the classroom. Students need to be greeted at the door with a smile each morning so they know they are entering a safe zone and know it is a place where it is safe to take chances even if success is not the result. In addition, students need to be surrounded with a positive atmosphere and attitude; which is done primarily by the teacher in the way the classroom is laid out and in how the teacher acts toward students and other faculty members. When students feel they are in a positive and safe environment they are more eager to learn and ready to follow procedures.