Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood)  - Master of Ed (T.E.S.O.L.)
(Teaching English to Students of Other Languages)

 

In my own words

Teachers have a major influence on the lives of students. They help to inspire, guide and encourage. Because of this, I feel that teachers are important facilitators, allowing students to gain access into unknown realms of life.

I believe that learning is an active, not passive, process. Children learn by doing. They need to explore and experience what is around them and draw conclusions and assumptions based on their findings. In this way, children develop critical thinking and problem solving.

I believe that teachers and students need to establish a trusting and understanding relationship. While teachers deserve respect from students, students also deserve respect from teachers. Teachers need to be compassionate, sensitive and empathetic and possess a strong sense of humour.

I believe in providing an environment for children to grow and develop in that is safe, positive (full of positive reinforcement, praise and encouragement), challenging and which allows children to make mistakes. It is through mistakes that a great deal of learning occurs. The environment needs to foster in children a desire to learn more about the world and themselves. Such an environment needs to be free from discrimination, and which meets the needs and interests of children regardless of race, gender, ability or age.

I believe children learn best when information is presented in a concrete and meaningful way that is relevant to them. When a child's interest is captivated, learning is a joy. Therefore teachers need to be creative, inspiring and flexible.

I strongly believe that each child has individual needs and abilities. Therefore, teachers need to strive to create a child-centred program that focuses on individual children, fostering and encouraging individual development and self-esteem.

I believe that the parent/school relationship is vital. Parents are the greatest source of knowledge about their children as they are their primary caregivers and first educators. Teachers need to encourage parent involvement and supporting them in their role as parents (e.g., providing information about the program/child-rearing practices or encouragement).

I believe in monitoring and reviewing the program and teaching practices on a regular basis. In this way, children's developmental needs are met, their abilities extended and the joy of learning fostered. Evaluation and assessment also allows teachers to ensure that programme goals are being met.

I believe that learning is a life long experience. Not only do children learn from teachers, but teachers learn from their students. As a teacher, I feel that I learn more about the world and myself through the students and in turn am able to give more back to them.

Using this philosophy as a guideline will help me, as a teacher, to encourage and inspire my students, all the while increasing their chances of overcoming the challenges they will face throughout life. In doing so, I will be making a difference in the lives of others and I will be helping to shape the future. I cannot think of anything else more rewarding!

 ...Susan