Educational Philosophy

M.Douthit
1/23/10
ETEC 524 Wickersham

Educational Philosophy

To me, the purpose of the education profession is to provide a very distinct service. That service is to create a learning environment for students. This environment is a non-threatening, open, and inclusive arena where learning, experimentation, and self-exploration are to take place. This environment should be inviting and relaxed with the goals of the student as the prime objective.

The student, or learner, has an important role as well. Their role is to be prepared to learn. That could mean having a willing, positive attitude, having the needed supplies and materials for the class, and having a desire to explore and ask questions. The student is invited into the learning environment that has been constructed and designed by the teacher. This is merely a framework within which the student will meet deadlines, complete assignments, ask questions, and assume a role of responsibility in this learning community.

The role of the teacher is that of a portal. The teacher must provide a meaningful, thought-provoking atmosphere that allows students to question and take risks. The educator guides and mentors along the way on this journey to understanding, insight, and appreciation. I feel that this allows the learner and teacher to develop a mutual respect and mutual sense of purpose. Teacher and student then have a common goal of fostering the learning environment. Both teacher and student need this kind of environment. It is a mutualistic relationship where one relies, or is dependent, on the other. A classroom without a genuinely invested teacher cannot have successful students. Conversely, a classroom missing motivated, prepared, and invested students will not have a successful teacher. One is dependent on the other in order to truly be successful.

So, the framework for the learning environment is created by the teacher with the learning objectives of the students in mind. This environment can be adapted and modified to meet the needs of each student. While students may have common goals, there certainly has to be individual goals in mind as well. Each student is different and many different learning styles may be evident in the class. The great teacher will recognize these differences and find a way to turn these into strengths that will unite and allow the members of the learning community to work together and explore together.

Technology allows the educator to expand the amount of resources available. These expanded resources can allow students to examine questions and answers from totally different points of view. Using technology to hook in students can go a long way. For example, making PowerPoints to highlight the new library books will certainly catch their eye.