Teaching Philosophy
I strongly support Dreiker’s belief that effective teaching stimulates children from within, as opposed to pressuring them from without (Sugarman & McNamara, 2000). Therefore, my primary role as a teacher is to motivate my students. I provide extrinsic motivation through encouragement and foster intrinsic motivation by using a variety of strategies that appeal to all intelligences (Millar, 1897; Gardner, 1983). To ensure that learning can occur, I am committed to providing to providing a safe, encouraging and effective environment. I will encourage a community of learners who support each other. I include my students in decision-making processes whenever possible so they feel part of the education process. I am proactive in my classroom management plan, using student self-confidence and sense of belonging to minimize classroom disruptions (Levin et al, 2005).
As a Science teacher I promote scientific thinking and literacy by providing a solid foundation of knowledge, and using practical examples and application of principles. Holistic learning is favoured through many distinct activities, helping students integrate new scientific knowledge into what they already know.