Heather Stout

Edu. 101-70A
Bauer
Oct. 8, 2014

Philosophy to Education and Students

I believe that the purpose of education is to provide children with the knowledge to better
themselves, presently and in the future. Children need to understand the fundamentals in order to get
anywhere in life. The role of an educator is to teach and better the young children, who will one day be
in charge of our nation. I will help the students to understand the basic principles, as well as some
things I would think to be important, such as manners, etiquette, and community involvement (Koch,
2014, pg. 36-7, 78-9).
The role of a student is to learn and understand concepts, while growing and developing one's
self. Since each child does come from different backgrounds and beliefs, to reach out and bring the
diversity of my students together, I will teach and explain the numerous types of holidays and cultures
to each child, instead of the main-focused ideals (Koch, 2014, pg. 17). This way, each and every
student is included and does not feel left out. The students can also become involved in the discussions
by explaining in detail, if they wish, how each of them celebrate their heritage and culture's holidays.
My goal is for each and every student to comprehend and achieve that get it feeling when we,
as a group, learn something new (Koch, 2014, pg. 31). I do not want the children to just learn, because
I want to learn with them as well. I will not just teach the students, because I want them to come
together and teach me. I want my students to understand and grow, becoming better people, not just
better students. I want them to surprise me.
I believe each individual, student or adult, has their own method to learn and understand (Koch,
2014, pg. 74). I, myself, prefer reading, writing notes, or listening to lectures. Not every student is the
same, for some may need one-on-one time with their teacher to be able to focus and comprehend.
Some students may want to practice a few examples of a math problem in class before being handed an
assignment. I want my students to feel comfortable asking for assistance, in any way they may need.
These beliefs may impact some areas of my teaching style, however, my classroom
management should not be affected. The classroom should not be affected if a student need extra help
comprehending the lesson(s) discussed in class. Each student will be encouraged to independently

study in the easiest way that suits their needs. We, as a class, will work together for a certain amount of
time. There will be time set aside for students to work in groups or alone and during that time, students
will be welcomed to talk to me and ask for assistance that will make them a better learner.
My strategies for teaching the students may be different to some of today's teachers' methods,
for I intend to actually get involved with the learning process. Instead of giving students work and
remain at a desk, I will go walk around the classroom and offer help in the best way I can. This was
common when I was in elementary school and it encouraged me to ask questions and not be scared of
asking for help. If extra help is needed by any of my students, I would give my time during and after
class or school. If one of my student cannot read silently or independently, perhaps one day I will
change my approach and have the students work in groups or sit the class in a circle and read or discuss
the subject matter together.
Taking and using assessments in my classroom will encourage and support my beliefs. When
giving assessments, I want to see what my students already know before starting a lesson or topic. I
also want my students to take a survey in the beginning of the year or semester, to see how each of my
children learn best and help myself find ways to incorporate the different styles of learning into my
methods. If a student needs just a few extra minutes to take a test, or a quiet place, like the library to
focus on their exam, I can give them that. It is a way that helps me to help them, which is one of my
main goals.
When I have to modify my methods and practices, I will always go to the students for ideas and
ways to better my teaching approach. If there is something I am doing wrong, that affects the students'
learning and eventually their grades and involvement, they will be the first to know.
My philosophy includes beliefs and methods of my own use, however, it foremost concerns my
students. Whether I am teaching now or in ten years, I will always put my students in the forefront of
my mind and decisions when it comes to the style I teach. It will always benefit them, before myself,
which is my main reason for working in the education field; currently, and 20 or more years from now.

Resources

Koch, J. (2014). TEACH(2nd ed.). Belmont, Calif.: Wadsworth; Cengage.

InTASC Standard Nine: Professional Learning and Ethical Practice

The teacher engages in ongoing professional learning and uses
evidence to continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the
effects of his/her choices and actions on others (learners, families,
other professionals, and the community), and adapts practice to
meet the needs of each learner.
Name of Artifact: Philosophy of Education
Date: Feb. 4, 2016
Course: EDUC 101: Introduction to Teaching
Brief Description: Wrote a philosophy of my beliefs, methods, and ideals when it
comes to education. Talked about differences including students, and how it
affects our strategies.
Rationale: I chose Standard 9 because as a teacher, I am learning continuously
throughout my career to better my methods, ideals, and adapt my lessons in ways
that can meet the needs of each and every learner in my class.