Philosophy+of+Education

Philosophy of Education My educational philosophy is influenced by Howard Gardner and his eight multiple intelligence's. I believe that all students are different. They have different learning styles and different learning needs. As teachers we should make our classroom environment reflect the individual needs of our students. The curriculum should be designed so that students are learning through multiple ways and not just through paper-pencil methods. Students need to be actively engaged in their learning experience. Teachers can provide this environment by planning a lesson and thinking of multiple ways to expand the lesson and to engage multiple learning styles. For example lessons can be enhanced by incorporating aspects of nature, drama, music, movement, or the use of manipulatives. Also collaborative group work, when used properly, can bring a different energy to a lesson that lights up the room. School needs to not only be a safe environment where students are expanding their knowledge but a place where they enjoy to be. I truly believe it is the teacher’s job to make this happen. A teacher is such an influential person in a child’s life so it is important that we get to know each child that we have the opportunity to teach on an individual level. If we do our jobs correctly we can lead each child to a bright and enriched future in and out of school. I am also a strong believer in inclusion. Children with disabilities, whether it be a physical disability or a mental disability, have a right to an appropriate education and should be given the correct accommodations to be successful in the classroom. These accommodations could be moderate or severe, depending on the child, but either way they child's needs can be met with proper adjustments form the teacher and collaboration among different educational professionals. In addition to in the classroom, outside of the classroom children with disabilities should be given opportunities to experience extracurricular activities. Many people often perceive that a child’s disability will limit them from being able to participate in extracurricular and community activities. However, with support from the community and provided opportunities these children can experience the joys of these activities.