My Educational Philosophy

I decided to share my educational philosophy on my blog here. This answers questions on why I chose teaching, my beliefs about teaching, learning, and children, the type of teacher I want to be, etc. Some parts might be familiar, but this is my final statements with regards to teaching. 

As a future teacher candidate (inshAllah :) this was part of a university class assignment. I know some people don't agree with me sharing my "school/ college" related work here, especially those related to teaching, but with all due respect, this is my personal blog and I can share whatever I want to. Anyways, I hope this answers some questions :)

I was in fourth grade when I realized I wanted to be a teacher. Although I have been interested in other careers, my greatest hope continues to be to teach. I loved school back then and I looked forward to going to school every day. I read stories to my younger brother and played school with him. Later on in seventh grade, I tutored second graders in English. In addition, I have assisted teachers at a private school over my winter, spring, and summer breaks for the past few years. Through this, I was able to interact with children from different grades, ages, and backgrounds, which I enjoyed!

I realized the importance of having a good education begins from an early age. If children are taught life skills and knowledge, then life for them as well as the people they interact with, will be much better. Being in a position to teach allows the teacher to influence a child positively. Teachers also act as role models. Memories from my own school years remind me of my fun childhood, but also the problems youth face, such as bullying and peer pressure. These thoughts and experiences, as well as the love of children and teaching them to value their free education, further led me to consider a career in education.

I would like to work with students in grades K-6 and specialize in English. I love reading and writing and want to instill this in the young generation. Using technology enhances the classroom. A 5th grade English teacher from whom I was learning techniques had her class do presentations using PowerPoint and Prezi on vocabulary words. This had the students up on their feet, let them develop speaking skills in front of an audience, gave them an opportunity to work with computer software, and be creative. The students seemed to enjoy seeing their classmates work and their own presented with graphics and audio. This would be a good idea to have my future students do to acquire similar skills instead of the teacher presenting information all the time.

Working with students and forming close relationships with them showed me how much attention, support, and guidance they need from a young age. Being someone who can relate to their situations, help them and give advice, and be a role model, makes me feel good. I like how children feel comfortable around me and open up like I am a friend. Any way that I can make students enjoy their childhood and school, gives me the motivation that I can do so much more once I become a teacher.