I have learned through observation a variety of approaches to developing habits of mind that reflect my teaching philosophy, including modeling of key concepts through white boarding, PowerPoint presentations, and students teaching each other. Classroom management is, also, of paramount importance, good classroom management is a key part of ones teaching philosophy, as it creates an environment where students know what is expected, have a safe learning setting, and keeps the focus on the material, not on behavioral issues. In addition to classroom management, and content presentation, and the confidence that comes with more experience in the classroom is evident in the way instructors were able to manage a variety of uncomfortable situations with tact and poise. All of these parts add up to what evidence of a sound and consistent philiosophy that students respect instead of fear. Students achieve more when they are not afraid to make mistakes, and are aware of how to treat the errors of other students with respect, instead of contempt.
The manner in which instructors choose to show respect, and develop and a rapport with students, also, had a great influence on how easy or difficult classroom management was. An excellent example of the effect of a positive approach to student relationships is Mr. Curtis Sisk from Hoover High School. His musical preferences and talent were common part of the atmosphere in his classroom. Even, though students often teased him for his choices he was careful to emphasize that he does not own or play stolen music; when students brought music in they knew they it had to be a legal copy. Mr. Sisk’s emphasis on honesty in the classroom extended into bringing up current events and talking plainly to the students about what he expects of them in class, and in society as a whole. His philosophy of teaching was not run by a strict set of hard and fast rules, but by his own honesty and integrity. I have a strong desire to emulate Mr. Sisk in the way he used his personal interests to relate to the lives of his students and use real life to illustrate his teaching philosophy. The way the students responded taught me why developing a similar philosophy of teaching is so important. Everyone, students, parents, peers, knows where they stand.
Furthermore, I will know that I am relating to my studnets in the most honest and genuine way that I can.The development of my professional philosophy and perspective is very valuable, just as, the in field experience with classroom mechanics is valuable. I have had the opportunity to experience, firsthand, the ups and downs of classroom. From the daily rhythm of the students, lackluster in the morning, rowdy after lunch and ready for the bell at the end of the day to IEP forms and 504 plans. I have also experienced how different types of philosophical approaches engage or turn off students. Noticing that the day-to-day workings of the classroom does not have to be a fireworks display to get their attention, simple dialoguing and self assessment allowed students to feel comfortable exploring concepts. There are so many ideas and experiences I have been and am being exposed too, my classroom concept and philosphy is continually evolving and being refined by my experiences. I expect to keep learning and changing as enter the next phases of my teaching career.