My educational philosophy, like many others, has changed and matured as I have taught in different cities and grades. My philosophy could be described as a balance between Piaget's Constructivist approach to instruction built upon Canter's Assertive Discipline.
I believe that the formation of an effective teacher starts first at the classroom management and behavior modification level. If the teacher cannot manage the room then the students will not be able to learn. After a teacher has established the climate of the classroom community, I believe the students should share equally in all tasks. The more jobs and responsibilty I can share with the students the more committed to the community of learning they will become.
Piaget's Constructivism believes that all learning should be student-centered and student driven. In today's educational system this style is tough with all the scripted curricula; however, I have found many ways to use many school district purchased curricula to support the interests of my students. In my view, the curricula is a jumping off point to start the learning process, and then the Constructivist approach comes to extend, enrich, and enlighten a deeper understanding of the subject.
I also believe that students with special needs should be fully included into the regular education classroom given the supports they need to be successful.
Lastly, I believe as a teacher in going the extra mile to ensure that every student in my classroom has a chance to be successful. This may look different to each child, but at the end of the school year every child will reach the goals we set.
