Philosophy and Vision of Education
Remember your days in school? Consider each grade level. What did you learn? What do you remember? Now, consider your life today. What are you learning? Most importantly, what are you remembering? I believe that what we have learned is measured by what we remember.
As a career educator, I have a philosophy that states that each of us is a learner every day of our lives. I teach and I learn. My students learn and they teach. We each have knowledge and experiences to offer; the mutual interaction is never-ending.
Let’s look at my vision of a classroom where everyone participates in the learning-teaching process:
WHAT is taught?
An effective education offers a diverse yet cohesive curriculum rich in relevant literature; social issues (historical and current); math concepts; scientific explorations; physical and emotional health; and a well-rounded fine arts program. Common thematic strands are woven among grade levels so that repetition occurs in a spiral pattern throughout the years, and sequential skills build systematically one atop another.
HOW is this content taught?
Students experience independent study, partner sharing, small group discussions and whole class interaction. Visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities appeal to the various learning modalities and intelligences. Quiet time balances with physical movement and cooperation harmonizes with competition. Seriousness and playfulness combine.
WHERE is it taught?
An active classroom boasts many examples of student work; colorful charts and posters; separate centers for hands-on discovery learning; a plethora of reading samples; and materials such as paper, art supplies and games easily accessible to all. An active learner finds lessons outside the classroom as well - in the grocery store, at the dentist, on the ferryboat.
Most importantly, WHO teaches?
The grandmother who passes on the family coconut cream pie recipe and the father who holds up a child’s wobbling first bicycle are teachers in the classroom of life. I believe that anyone motivated by compassion, empowered by factual and experiential knowledge, and fueled by enthusiasm is both a teacher and a learner. That means you, too!