My evolving philosophy of education is that all students are unique. They all have their own experiences and socio-cultural background that influences their learning styles. I aim to provide an environment that provides enrichment and growth in a holistic way that all students deserve. I believe my role as a teacher is to facilitate, to offer guidance, to promote individuality and creativity through different modes of teaching. Thus providing a safe environment for my students to share their opinions and ask questions. However, the knowledge and learning theories that underpins my philosophy is a combination of all three.
Initially, I utilized a Constructivist Approach where I truly believed learning is the responsibility of the learner. I, the facilitator, will guide students to build on their prior knowledge through inquiry and engagement. As mentioned in class, this way the process of learning takes into consideration the students individuality, uniqueness and own understanding. I however had to deviate from a constructivist approach to a cognitive approach while teaching at a school where the majority of the school’s population were reading way below their grade level. Sadly, the focus was to complete the curriculum despite the students’ learning challenges. So since our focus is narrowed by empirical data, the product rather than the process, the Constructivist approach was not producing the product in a timely manner. A. William (2015) highlighted that the nature of knowledge is constantly changing, unlike decades before, skilled-based jobs require both academic and skill-based requirements. As this technological era evolves, teachers’ instructions too, must align with this era but each faces his/her own unique situation.
Lastly, while Skinner’s theory on Stimuli- Response to Behavior theory has its cons, it has had a positive impact on my students behavior over the years especially my male dominated classes. I use a positive and negative reward system that is unique to each of my classes. For example, a reward as simple as receiving a star on a chart each time required behavior is displayed, and the reverse when the student displayed unacceptable behavior. What was even more interesting was learning that Skinner’s non-traditional learning approach gave birth to the Adaptive approach that is now being encouraged. Both approaches focus on the individuality of each learner, which was the aim of Skinner’s Teaching Machine. Now we have individual assessment and teaching tools that allow students to learn at their own pace and level. This Adaptive approach I too used as a teacher and I am currently utilizing it as a student.
The video below gives insight about some foundational educational theorists, their theories, and how they relate to the classroom.
I agree with your post, very interesting! All students are unique, and they all have their own learning styles. Some learn faster, some learn slower. I encountered this when I was a teacher, and it can get challenging because as a teacher, one has to consider everyone’s learning in the classroom. With the constructivist approach and through guiding the students at the same time, they will be able to think critically and more independenlty.
Hi Latoya Mitchell-Gabbidon, Your educational philosophy reflects a deep commitment to creating a nurturing environment for a holistic development of students . you emphasize that every child’s behavior is influenced by his or her social and cultural background, and you have also described the importance of your constructivist approach as very important in the learning of a learner and have inspired them to learn through involvement and based on their previous knowledge as a guide. In this way, your effort to involve students in the learning process from their own experience is commendable. But you have also stated that you would prefer to take a cognitive approach rather than a constructivist one when dealing with practical difficulties related to finishing the syllabus. This indicates that you believe that an approach must be flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the students. Your ability to integrate a variety of educational theories such as cognitive approach, constructivism and behaviorism into teaching practice while retaining a student-centered philosophy .
Thanku
Prabhdeep Kaur
Hi Latoya
It is clear from your description that you emphasize that every student is a unique student in his own way. Students have own experiences and learn something from his social cultural background. In my view, it is very commendable that you have tried to include various types of educational theories such as cognitivism, behaviorism and constructivism in your experience of education. Therefore, this type of approach also shows that you are ready to change different types of methods based on the needs of the student.However, I also understand that students face different challenges in reading as they read below grade level. You may also feel the need to shift toward a cognitive approach. Thus your ability to recognize when different pedagogical approaches and methods are needed demonstrates your insightful understanding of teacher education.
Thankyou
Prabhdeep kaur