Teaching Philosophy

Physical Education programs have changed since the very start of education. The

structure and curriculum in the classroom has changed based on societal needs and demands. In

the present day, we live in a country where obesity is increasing in younger-aged children and

the role of a Physical Education teacher and class is often overlooked due to the pressure of

standardized tests. Standard-based education has taken up time for students to be actively

engaged in recess and even physical education. Physical Education, unlike many subjects, should

approach its curriculum based on students’ interests. The educational philosophy of

progressivism is most relevant to my philosophy of teaching, as I believe curriculum should start

and end with student’s interest and that students should be able to express themselves through

trial and error, inquiry, discovery, cooperative learning and team building is vital to creating

productive members to our society.

Progressivism takes the whole child into consideration in all areas—social, emotional,

cognitive and physical. The purpose of a physical education program is to educate and promote

physical activity and movement but to also encourage and show students how to become active

and useful members of their society. The PE program does not just focus on movement but it has

a more holistic view of developing students from the inside out so that they can be lifelong

physical activity participants. This philosophy emphasizes students’ self-esteem and the

importance of building supportive relationships with classmates. As a teacher, I will always

encourage my students to try new things and get out of their comfort zone. I will give them

constructive feedback and constantly motivate them to put forth their best effort.

In my classroom I will strive to provide a safe environment for students to feel free

enough to test their physical abilities. I believe that each child has their own unique skills that
either needs refinement or to be more challenging. The best way for me to create a safe

environment while accommodating to students skills is to include them into my curriculum. This

philosophy begins with the child, and takes their interests into consideration. Ultimately my goal

is to make sure they feel like they are being heard instead of just being told what to do. I will

listen to their needs so that the physical activities they do partake in have meaning to them. This

is an opportunity to develop and learn from my students and acknowledge what is important to

them.

Progressivism notes that truths of today may not be necessarily be truths of tomorrow. As

a PE teacher I will encourage my students to accept each classmate regardless of their

differences. In order to become a good citizen a student must realize that they will be exposed to

people of different age, race, ethnicity and gender in their future and the only way to thrive and

be successful in this society is to learn to be accepting and learn to work together when needed. I

will continuously expose them to physical activities that are challenging and require teamwork in

order to be successful. I want each student to feel confident in relying on one another as well as

confident in teaching one another new skills. I will teach them the benefits of teamwork and

exploration through team sports, trust activities and outdoor activities. Progressivism considers

the community outside of school as resourceful for students’ learning experience. I will provide

assignments and offer credit for community service that promotes healthy living such as running

events and walks.

With society’s needs and demands changing a classroom must adapt to this change.

Progressivism embraces change and makes the most of it to give students a meaningful

experience. I believe with all the external forces of standardized tests, children and their interests

and needs must remain central to what and how educators teach in a classroom. Student’s
preferences should be implemented so that they learn to become positive contributors to our

ever-changing society.