The Purpose of Education

The impact a teacher can have on a student can last a lifetime. Teachers can help students learn, and enjoy learning. When teachers love what they are doing and students are fully engaged, there is a good chance for success to happen. I believe teachers help guide student learning by teaching them skills that will translate into other classes: not just teaching a subject, but teaching them how to learn. My philosophy on education includes many of the major theories of education. There is not just one educational theory that I would precisely follow. My goal for the students would be for them to have a safe learning environment that they feel comfortable in, and to feel like they have learned something valuable. If the student feels confident, it will help improve their school work on a daily basis and help with their educational journey. The dynamic combination of the following theories describes my educational philosophy that I have constructed, and which is in line with my beliefs.

The purpose of education is to learn what is needed, and to excel in that learning, at a certain age or grade. Some elements of perennialism can be seen in my beliefs, because I would like to see the students cultivate moral and ethical frameworks, to help prepare them for life, and the professional world. I can see behaviorism factoring into my philosophy to some degree, as I believe it is important for the students to behave appropriately in the classroom setting. This will enhance the learning experience for the students, and again, prepare them for life outside of the classroom. It is important to teach respect and the value of diversity. The classroom is often full of diverse individuals, and embracing that element can help students develop empathy and to learn the importance of cooperation, regardless of differences

I believe that understanding the nature of the learner is invaluable. Students are complex, as all individuals are, and have components of their make-up that are both physical and mental. Through understanding this nature, they can be educated in such a way as to bring these elements together, to act in concert to actualize their full potential.

My plans for the curriculum design would be to make sure everyone understands the assignment, and the expectations, while allowing freedom of expression in the exercise. I will encourage the students to also learn on their own by bringing their ideas and studies to the class. In this way the students can then bring their own diverse outlook to the assignment, so we can all learn from each other. I would like for the instructional methods of class to include many group activities, projects, critical thinking, problem solving, decision making and cooperative learning. My goal for the student is to move toward becoming the best person they can be.

Classroom Management would include making sure the mandatory assignments and their assessment are understood. There would be extra time to incorporate fun learning projects, and other activities, provided all other work was complete. Assessment should be structured in accord with the school's requirements, and include an evaluation of each student and how they have grown throughout the term and their challenges. While every student may come to me at different levels, I would like to see every student improve.

As a teacher, I want to lead by example and inspire students. Students are in school to learn, and they”in part”learn by example. By having a positive attitude, working hard, and respecting others, I know the students will notice that I care about their learning and wellbeing. Part of being a teacher is being a facilitator. It is often said it takes a village to raise a child, and as a facilitator I will be in a position to bring the knowledge of my colleagues, the community, and the parents all to bear in the education of the students. The most important aspect of teaching is that the educational needs of the students are met. I will always be learning, and as I do I will continue to hone my philosophy so that I may best help serve my students and their needs.

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