The Heralds of Knowledge: A Veteran Educator Shares Insights on Teaching Philosophy
As a distinguished veteran in the field of education, I have led prestigious international schools and managed educational institutions for over five decades. Throughout my career, I have encountered a wide array of teaching philosophies, from those that are outright terrible to those that are truly outstanding. Surprisingly, my own teaching philosophy has always been a subject of personal reflection—despite being deeply immersed in the world of education.
Philosophies as Pitfalls
One might think that having a crystallized teaching philosophy is essential for success in the education sector. However, my years of experience in recruitment and administration have taught me that this is not always the case. The inclusion of a personal teaching philosophy in a job application can be more of a hindrance than a help. Many candidates put a great deal of thought into their philosophies, only to find that these do not align with the values and expectations of the institution they are applying to.
My advice, based on experience, is to refrain from including a teaching philosophy unless it is explicitly required. If it is mandatory to present one, it is crucial to be extremely cautious and mindful of the nuances. A poorly written philosophy can disqualify a candidate without even being read further.
My Teaching Approach: Engagement through Interest
Instead of relying on a preconceived philosophy, I have opted to tailor my teaching methods to the interests of my students. Identifying what captivates them and using this as a foundation to keep them engaged is a philosophy that has served me well. For instance, I use their interests to craft lesson plans that maintain their attention and motivation. I have even gone as far as offering bribes in the form of early finishes and treats like doughnuts on Fridays to ensure their undivided attention. To reinforce learning, I conclude each lecture with a humorous anecdote.
While my methods may not conform to traditional teaching standards, they have proven to be effective. My classes were rarely missed, and my students consistently achieved. This win-win approach emphasizes the importance of personalization and engagement in the learning process.
The Pillars of Effective Education
According to my philosophy, all children have the potential to learn given the right opportunities. However, the quality of education can be profoundly impacted by factors such as class size and teacher-student ratio. Smaller class sizes and increased one-on-one time with teachers allow for a more personalized learning experience, which is crucial for the effective education of children.
Parents also play a pivotal role in their children's education. Their involvement and support are essential for a child's overall success. For the first ten to twelve years, the focus should be on fostering a love of learning. Over this period, it is important to instill self-regulated learning habits. This means encouraging children to take responsibility for their own learning, understand how they learn best, and make necessary adjustments as needed. As children become more argumentative and dialectical reasoning skills are developed, they are better equipped to argue effectively and gain more control over their learning.
The goal of modern education should be to cultivate self-regulated learners. These individuals are capable of continuous learning and have the ability to access and utilize information effectively. They are no longer dependent on single educators for their development but can take charge of their own educational journey with confidence and competence.
In conclusion, while a teaching philosophy can be a useful tool for reflection and self-improvement, it is not a necessity in every situation. Instead, focusing on engaging students through their interests, maintaining smaller class sizes, involving parents, and fostering self-regulated learning are key components for an effective and successful educational approach.