Philosophy of Education
Education is central to the development of children into productive members of our global society. My philosophy of teaching is influence by the social constructivist learning theory. I believe that learning happens best in a supportive context of peer and teacher cooperation and mutual respect. Teachers, as guides and models, lead students into active learning connected to experience and the practical needs of the real world. Learning must find a home in the context of the students' previous knowledge and experience.
Specifically the work of Lev Vygotsky has been influential in developing my philosophy of teaching. Strategies of scaffolding and Vygotsky's zone of proximal development will be important aspects in my practice of teaching. The ultimate goal of education is to equip students to become lifelong learners. Therefore, critical thinking, problem solving skills, creativity, communication, and collaboration are essential to long-term success. We must help our students learn how to think, not just inform them of what to think in order for them to be prepared to function independently in our ever changing global society.
Specifically the work of Lev Vygotsky has been influential in developing my philosophy of teaching. Strategies of scaffolding and Vygotsky's zone of proximal development will be important aspects in my practice of teaching. The ultimate goal of education is to equip students to become lifelong learners. Therefore, critical thinking, problem solving skills, creativity, communication, and collaboration are essential to long-term success. We must help our students learn how to think, not just inform them of what to think in order for them to be prepared to function independently in our ever changing global society.
These pictures are from the two years I taught at Beakseok Middle School in Cheonan, South Korea.
Philosophy of Technology
I believe that technology integration is vitally important in today’s classrooms. Teaching our students to use technology efficiently and responsibly is a life skill that is essential in the 21st Century. Technological readiness is an authentic skill that will prepare students for future schooling but more importantly for life outside the classroom. The use of technology does not necessarily equate to good teaching; but good teaching will necessarily integrate technology in meaningful ways to enhance learning. Technology is a powerful tool for differentiation and maximizing student interest.
As a future teacher of English Language Learners, I recognize that technology offers a wide range of tools that are essential in helping students construct meaning and learn material deeply. Pictures and video supports are some of the technology that I most regularly employ in the classroom. I also see myself using online portfolios, multimedia presentations, and interactive web platforms as tools through which students can demonstrate their learning via creative, personalized channels. Technology is a tool for differentiation both in instruction and assessment. I believe that ongoing professional development is essential to maintain relevance in the constantly changing realm of educational technology, but I owe it to my students to model lifelong learning in my innovative and responsible use of technology in the classroom.
As a future teacher of English Language Learners, I recognize that technology offers a wide range of tools that are essential in helping students construct meaning and learn material deeply. Pictures and video supports are some of the technology that I most regularly employ in the classroom. I also see myself using online portfolios, multimedia presentations, and interactive web platforms as tools through which students can demonstrate their learning via creative, personalized channels. Technology is a tool for differentiation both in instruction and assessment. I believe that ongoing professional development is essential to maintain relevance in the constantly changing realm of educational technology, but I owe it to my students to model lifelong learning in my innovative and responsible use of technology in the classroom.