“If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” This quote by Ignacio Estrada represents my teaching philosophy. My teaching philosophy is that each student brings their own particular brand of genius to the classroom, and that my most important job is to discover and empower that genius. In order to make this happen, I must have a positive learning environment where students feel welcomed, comfortable, and safe with each other.
Next semester, I am very excited to really get the opportunity to get to know my students. This semester, I have been able to build positive relationships with students. For example, learning their names and chatting with them as they arrive to class. But I would really like to get to know them better, such as, where they come from, their culture, and families.
I am most apprehensive about not being able to meet all the needs of each student. For example, ELL students, gifted students, special ed students, etc. I have learned from experience that each student brings experiences to the learning environment that will impact who they are as learners. This means that I will need a wide range of methods to reach their needs. This starts by what I mentioned before: getting to know students and considering their interests. It is important to consider their lives outside of school and learn their unique perspectives. Another area I am most apprehensive about is classroom management. I feel that we haven’t really touched the subject in my courses last semester of this semester. I feel that I will learn more about the strategies and the what not do once I am placed in the classroom. I know that going once a week is not as effective as going 4 days a week.
I feel that one of my weaknesses is preparation and planning. The impact of preparation and planning is tremendous on student learning. I know I need to continue to work on writing measurable learning objectives, meet the standards, and implement instruction effectively. I am not quite confident in writing objectives. I feel that I need a little bit more support in order to successfully write a measurable learning objective.
My internships have helped the most in preparing me for student teaching. I have gained valuable experience by going into the classrooms and observing the way each teacher teaches. I have learned methods and strategies that work effectively and those that don’t. I know that the more experience I have, I will become more confident. I am humbled and honored to be able to do my student teaching. I can’t wait what new things I will learn.
