Kimberly E Northrup
Philosophy of Education
As a future educator, I hereby state my philosophy of education. I intend to share my beliefs about children and their capabilities, as well as my personal expectations as a future educator for tomorrow’s society.
Diversity and Similarity
I believe, that as a teacher, it is my responsibility to treat each student as an individual. This idea requires the acknowledgement of his or her interests and needs, and tailoring the lesson in order for all students to benefit. Every child is capable of succeeding, but I feel that the society of today has too narrowly defined success.
I believe it is important to have students recognized that they are only human beings, one of billions, and we should remember collectively that no one human is better than the other. Every person should treat every other person with the same amount of respect that he or she gives himself or herself.
Teaching, Learning, and Mentoring
I believe the teacher is the expert of the subject being taught. While this means the teacher is well versed in his or her area of expertise, he or she is not expected to know everything. The teacher should know enough to speak with clarity and confidence, and be revered by students as the go-to person when a question arises in this area.
I believe the teacher should not only want to educate students, but also to positively shape society and influence students for the better. I do not mean the teacher is to indoctrinate students with his or her ideas of a better society, but instead to have students leave class with an open mind and understanding for the opinions and beliefs of others.
I believe one of the most important characteristics of the teacher is to hold a genuine, personal relationship with students in the classroom. The teacher should not just be the authority figure at the front of the classroom spewing information, but should have an authentic interest in each of his or her students.
Theory, Practice, and Collaboration
I believe community should be one of the main components in a class’s foundation. Students should know that individually, they have their own strengths to offer, but as a whole they can achieve something greater with their talents combined. This idea is often shared with students at the beginning of the school year, but I feel that more could be done throughout the year to make this concept something that really resonates within a student’s being.
I believe students should become active members of their own communities both within the school, and within the area they live. They should build a strong resource base of people, places, and objects that they can rely on for future reference.
Professional Strength and Responsibility
I believe it is the teacher’s duty to help each student find his or her own identity and know his or her place in society.
I believe it is the teacher’s obligation to portray himself/herself as a world citizen, and to motivate students to act for others, and not just themselves.
I believe one of the most important messages to be taught in the classroom is that of respect. Students should respect their others, themselves, and the class work itself. I feel that once students gain some perspective into the insight of others, they may only then further themselves in terms of knowledge and self-growth.