Chapter Three: Ethics and Professionalization

Section 3.1: Philosophy of Education

2.3.14- Develop a personal philosophy of education

My philosophy of education is constructed in the idea that I hope to influence and inspire

my students to become well educated and motivated leaders of society. Education is the

gateway to the future which is why every child deserves an equal opportunity for a high quality

education regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic levels, etc. Teachers are much more

important to a child than just strictly teaching the curriculum. Teachers are counselors, role

models, psychologists, detectives, and much more. As a teacher I will work to grow my students

academically but also as individuals in a rapidly changing environment. I will also make sure

that all my students feel loved and like they are somebody. This can be done through building

efficacy in the school environment, teacher-student relationships, personal experiences,

educational theories, learning from other experts in the field, and taking advantage of all of the

teachable moments.

In “Every Kid Needs A Champion,” Rita Pierson describes the importance of

relationships that students and teachers have. “Every child deserves a champion, an adult who

will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they

become the best that they can possibly be.” (Evidence; 3.1.1) The student-teacher relationship

is very important and can last a lifetime. These positive relationships can allow a sense of trust

and impact the academic and social experiences of students as well. Every student deserves

this relationship with at least one of their teachers and as a teacher I will value all of the

relationships I develop with students and also coworkers.

Another way I can be the best teacher possible is by developing a strong sense of

efficacy in the classroom. Efficacy is the teacher’s confidence in their ability to promote students’

learning and this can depend on past experiences or the school culture. “Teacher’s with a

stronger sense of efficacy: Tend to exhibit greater levels of planning and organization; Are more
open to new ideas and are more willing to experiment with new methods to better meet the

needs of their students; Are more persistent and resilient when things do not go smoothly, Are

less critical of students when they make errors; and Are less inclined to refer a difficult student

to special education.” (Evidence; 3.1.2) Research has proven that there is a positive relationship

between a teacher’s sense of efficacy and student achievement. When it comes to being a

teacher, everything is unpredictable. You never know what you may deal with on a day to day

basis. Therefore, having confidence in yourself regardless of things that may go out of your

control is very important. As a teacher I will work to embrace confidence, resilience, and work to

be more flexible and not rely strictly on what I had planned.

Educators can also take into consideration cognitivism, behaviorism, and humanistic

theories and philosophies to help us make more informed decisions around the design,

development, and delivery of learning. Abraham Maslow is a well known theorist who created

the humanistic learning theory: “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.” This is a theory of psychological

health predicted on fulfilling innate human needs in priority, culminating in self-actualization. This

theory contains a five-tier model of human needs, often depicted as hierarchical levels within a

pyramid. The theory suggests that unless all the needs below are fulfilled, it is not possible to

achieve a higher level. If a student is not learning properly it may be because their hierarchy of

needs are not fulfilled. (Evidence; 3.1.3) The goal of all teachers should be to help each student

reach their full potential, whether it be self-actualization and challenges of their academic and/

or creative endeavors or esteem or relationships. By identifying what students need and what

drives and motivates them, we as teachers, can develop mutually beneficial relationships and

positive environments conducive to work. In my classroom I will strive to use the teacher-student

collaboration model. This will allow me to work with students individually to see their progress.

Today, many classrooms are teacher-student collaboration because teachers try to incorporate

both to differentiate and keep students engaged. (Evidence; 3.1.4) Differentiation will also play a

vital role in my classroom because all students are capable of learning just not in the same way,
so it is up to me to allow students to take a different approach while ultimately reaching the

same end goal.

Lastly, I want to be a teacher because I will have the opportunity to profoundly impact the

lives of children. I want to be a lifelong learner and never stop learning and growing. Being a

teacher will also allow an outlet for my creativity. I will find ways to engage my students in a

creative way while staying up to date with advancing technology. The teaching environment is

also never dull, no two days are ever the same. The variety of people you come in contact with,

the changing challenges, the daily discoveries all combine to make teaching an interesting and

engaging adventure. And most importantly, I will have the chance to change the future as a

teacher. I will build a lasting legacy on my school and students where my influence will never

stop.