Educational Philosophy

My educational philosophy is based on the idea that all students are deserving of equal opportunities to learn and grow in ways that are most beneficial for them. Throughout my experiences thus far, one of the most important things I have learned are that connections and relationships are so important as an educator for the well-being and progress of the students. Teaching is an extremely rewarding profession that also comes with a lot of responsibility and power. Teachers have the ability to change lives and inspire the future generation of citizens and people to be the best they can be. 

Pedagogy

I believe that student-centred learning encourages inquiry, curiosity, social skills, communication, and many more skills that are so essential to life after school. In my teaching experience, I incorporate whole-class discussions, small group discussions, activity and inquiry-based learning, modified lessons and differentiated teaching strategies, and feedback-based assessments to provide students with many different ways to learn and build on important skills. I encourage students to take multiple paths to show and improve their learning so they can build their skills while also highlighting their current strengths and abilities. I believe that all students have great strengths that can be realized with some encouragement. I also like to recognize the importance of meeting students where they are at. I believe that it is my job to help students learn and grow from whatever point they're at. 

Social Justice In Teaching

The world is an extremely diverse place and our classrooms are examples of that. I believe that educators should play to that diversity and use it to their advantage. It's so amazing how different every person is and what they can bring to the table if they are given the proper opportunities to do so. Educators should not try to stifle that diversity but encourage and celebrate it. I believe that people deserve a place where their histories, cultures, and traditions are acknowledged and celebrated, and that classrooms should be one of those spaces. An important part of social justice in the classroom - in my opinion - is that all students deserve a place where they feel safe and accepted for who they are, whether that be home, school, or some other place. As educators, we should ensure that students have these places, and if they don't, we need to create those spaces for our students. 

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Assessment

I believe that assessment should be equitable, valid, and should promote deep learning for all students. Assessment in the classroom can be tricky but I believe that feedback for students is so important to encourage learning. Not only feedback, but the chance to improve on their work.  Constant feedback and improvement opportunities as assessment tools show students that mistakes are not something to be feared but can be opportunities for learning and growth inside and outside the classroom. 

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Inspiring Myself & Students to be Lifelong Learners

As I mentioned in the pedagogy section, I believe that inquiry and curiosity in the classroom are extremely important tools that can be used to inspire lifelong learning. These two traits should never be stifled in the classroom as it shows students that asking questions is always a good thing and builds on their desire to learn outside the classroom. I also believe that encouraging students to learn using the methods that they thrive in helps them build a love for learning rather than seeing it as something they are forced to participate in. For myself, I think it is important to learn from my students and allow them to challenge ideas in the classroom so that I can also be a lifelong learner. I think it is also important that I am constantly readjusting my methods and ideology to allow myself to continue learning. I think by showing the students that I am excited about teaching, they will be excited about learning.