It is my belief that effective teaching begins with understanding the learner and how they think and reason about content. From this foundation, I strive to help my students develop more sophisticated forms of understanding and reasoning. Through the use of effective questioning, it is my goal to challenge learners and encourage them to move from simple to more complex forms of thinking. In addition, I strive to help learners bridge their knowledge by providing relevant and meaningful examples (Pratt & Collins, 2001).
As an instructor, it is crucial to foster a culture of respect and integrity in the classroom, so that students can take the necessary risks required for learning. By taking the time to establish with members the academic and professional expectations and goals of the learning community, I demonstrate my commitment to a safe learning environment.
Communication is both a foundation for, and a catalyst of quality learning. Within my classroom, you will find clear and concise language of instruction, a variety of teaching strategies to communicate with the diverse members of my class, and ongoing and constructive assessment to inform students of their strengths and areas of need. Positive, effective communication is as important outside the classroom as it is within. The culture of the classroom extends beyond its doors, and is affected by the institution in which it resides. By maintaining open and honest positive communication with students, fellow instructors, and administration, I contribute to and maintain a supportive collegial learning environment.
Technology creates opportunities for learning that did not exist at the turn of the century. Learning management systems should be used extensively to afford all students of varying ability, confidence, and personality the opportunity to engage and participate in the learning process. As a communication tool, they provide a private, respectful forum for conversation, so that students can ask questions without fear of embarrassment. Furthermore, the collaborative tools inherent in many learning management systems allow students to learn as part of a social group, thus enhancing their comprehension of the material, but also providing the flexibility of working remotely when necessary.
The most poignant advice I have ever received is “to live life as a traveler, not a tourist”. It is advice I have taken to heart and have used as a guiding principle in my personal and professional development. It is a mindset that I strive to foster among the members of my classroom to help them develop the habit of lifelong learning. A willingness to learn and the desire to continue learning outside the classroom are not always present in students. Therefore, I strive to teach them through guided instruction and example.
My personal goals in teaching have been greatly influenced by the principles of constructivism, respect & integrity, positive communication, innovation, and the pursuit of life-long learning. As I travel down my personal path of education and teaching I know I will continue to learn and grow; that I will discover new and innovative ideas, models of thinking, and methods of learning. I am elated to think of how they will refine and improve my approach to teaching and lead to enriching teaching opportunities.
References
Pratt, D., & Collins, J. (2001). Summary of Five Perspectives on ‘Good Teaching’, Retrieved Jan. 6th, 2010, from http://teachingperspectives.com/tpi_html/tpi_summaries.html
As an instructor, it is crucial to foster a culture of respect and integrity in the classroom, so that students can take the necessary risks required for learning. By taking the time to establish with members the academic and professional expectations and goals of the learning community, I demonstrate my commitment to a safe learning environment.
Communication is both a foundation for, and a catalyst of quality learning. Within my classroom, you will find clear and concise language of instruction, a variety of teaching strategies to communicate with the diverse members of my class, and ongoing and constructive assessment to inform students of their strengths and areas of need. Positive, effective communication is as important outside the classroom as it is within. The culture of the classroom extends beyond its doors, and is affected by the institution in which it resides. By maintaining open and honest positive communication with students, fellow instructors, and administration, I contribute to and maintain a supportive collegial learning environment.
Technology creates opportunities for learning that did not exist at the turn of the century. Learning management systems should be used extensively to afford all students of varying ability, confidence, and personality the opportunity to engage and participate in the learning process. As a communication tool, they provide a private, respectful forum for conversation, so that students can ask questions without fear of embarrassment. Furthermore, the collaborative tools inherent in many learning management systems allow students to learn as part of a social group, thus enhancing their comprehension of the material, but also providing the flexibility of working remotely when necessary.
The most poignant advice I have ever received is “to live life as a traveler, not a tourist”. It is advice I have taken to heart and have used as a guiding principle in my personal and professional development. It is a mindset that I strive to foster among the members of my classroom to help them develop the habit of lifelong learning. A willingness to learn and the desire to continue learning outside the classroom are not always present in students. Therefore, I strive to teach them through guided instruction and example.
My personal goals in teaching have been greatly influenced by the principles of constructivism, respect & integrity, positive communication, innovation, and the pursuit of life-long learning. As I travel down my personal path of education and teaching I know I will continue to learn and grow; that I will discover new and innovative ideas, models of thinking, and methods of learning. I am elated to think of how they will refine and improve my approach to teaching and lead to enriching teaching opportunities.
References
Pratt, D., & Collins, J. (2001). Summary of Five Perspectives on ‘Good Teaching’, Retrieved Jan. 6th, 2010, from http://teachingperspectives.com/tpi_html/tpi_summaries.html
