Teaching Philosophy

Teaching Philosophy

My philosophy of teaching is based on 18 years of teaching experience. As I reflect on my beliefs regarding teaching and learning, I find that my duties as a teacher are :

• to promote interest towards learning;
• to spark learner enthusiasm and make them understand the importance of learning;
• and to provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

To make this possible, I enjoy applying a wide variety of strategies based on essential educational principles encompassing cognitive functioning, learning theory, diversity issues and assessment.

Considering the cognitive functioning of learners is essential in order to implement and apply strategies that are appropriate for either concrete operational or formal operational learners. Interest is often thought of as a process that contributes to learning and achievement. That is, being interested in a topic is a mental resource that enhances learning, which then leads to better performance and achievement (Hidi, 1990). I routinely plan activities, such as brief writings, that can help me determine the cognitive levels of my students and tailor my instruction accordingly. Without this consideration, I would risk the possibility of my students losing interest towards what is being taught.

Behavioral theory offers a wealth of principles that, when used appropriately, can benefit classroom learning and management at all levels.  In the classroom, students behavior need to be observed, only then can we as educators help build the learners' enthusiasm and make them understand the importance of learning.Certain activities are planned to approach them. Some of my favorites classroom activities that are well received by students include: think-pair-share, classroom jigsaw activities, constructive controversies, and interactive lectures.

Understanding both the learning style of individual learners and the cultural diversity of the class or group helps me both design and tailor effective instruction by implementing appropriate global  and teaching strategies. Although a variety of learning styles are likely represented by learners in any large class or group setting, I routinely design my instruction using the research-based learning cycle which can both accommodate individual preferences, engage diverse learners, and help establish a respect for differing culture and learning goals.

Finally, I strongly believe that one can employ numerous strategies and methods to accurately reach the understanding of course content among various groups of students. Learning and teaching must be assessed to know its effectiveness. It can be done using rubrics, checklists, projects, portfolios, performance diagnostic checks, presentations and also most likely  traditional exams or test.

Teaching all these years has helped me grow in my love for teaching and learning. More importantly, I have discovered that, my beliefs in teaching and learning has helped me set my goals straight. As a result, teaching with clarity, passion, empathy, and sincere enthusiasm, effectively impacts learners by making them know the importance of education which connects them to their ‘passion’ and lifelong learning.