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My
philosophy of teaching is based on the model of the EFFECTIVE
EDUCATOR as prescribed by the Southeastern Louisiana
University College of Education and Human Development. The
effective educator follows the conceptual framework to ensure a
successful teaching career. The parts of the conceptual framework
are standards-based instruction, knowledge of the learner, best
pedagogical practices, and content knowledge. As a future
elementary education teacher, I intend to incorporate all of these
components into the classroom.
STANDARDS-BASED INSTRUCTION is defined as course objectives
and learner outcomes recommended by the Louisiana Components of
Effective Teaching, National Board for Professional Standards,
Learned Societies (International Reading Association), and
Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium. An
example of a content standard for mathematics as set by the
Louisiana Department of Education is in problem-solving
investigations, students demonstrate an understanding of geometric
concepts and applications involving one-, two-, and
three-dimensional geometry, and justify their findings. Grade
level expectations clearly lay out what should be learned by the
end of each grade level in each subject. They are more specific
than content standards. A grade level expectation from third
grade geometry reads, “Identify and draw segments, rays, and lines
that are perpendicular, parallel, and intersecting.”
KNOWLEDEGE OF THE LEARNER is defined as a learning community
comprised of individuals who demonstrate and value sensitivity to
the needs of all learners. According to the Louisiana Department
of Education website one content standard for elementary students
is to recognize the elements of a story such as plot, setting, and
character. In order to accommodate each type of learner in the
classroom, I would use a variety of activities. For example, to
teach the kinesthetic and tactile learner I would write one story
element on each color on a beach ball. I would toss it to a
student and whatever color his hand is on, he would have to define
the story element and apply it to the story. I would read and
define the story elements for the auditory learners and make a
handout for the visual learners. I would have at least four
different ways to teach every lesson to ensure every type of
learner is reached.
BEST
PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES is defined by the ability to utilize
available resources as candidates work in teams and collaborate to
develop and implement effective instruction. Every student will
benefit from using a variety of teaching methods. I plan to teach
students in a number of ways including small group work, large
group instruction, hands on experience, and individual work.
Students will develop the skills that are necessary to work alone
and in groups to think critically and solve problems.
CONTENT KNOWLEDGE is defined as the depth of knowledge in the
specific content areas and breadth of understanding from general
subjects. It is extremely important for effective educators to
never stop learning. To keep this from happening, I am open to
the latest forms in which to research and gather information such
as the internet. One can learn many exciting things from the
internet as well as how to brighten up a dull lesson. I am also
open to using perhaps the oldest form of gathering information:
reading. Books are tools that continue to unleash knowledge in
classrooms everywhere.
Classroom Management is of utmost importance to teachers. My
classroom will be arranged in small groups. This will give the
students an opportunity to interact together and create more space
in the classroom. I feel rules and consequences should be clearly
laid out for students to see. It might also be helpful to get the
student involved in making the rules and consequences. This not
only promotes democracy, it will give students a better
understanding of what their limits are and what to expect.
Positive reinforcement is a great motivator for students.
The
conceptual framework provides a great model for the effective
educator. Standards-based instruction, knowledge of the learner,
best pedagogical practices, and content knowledge are elements
that a true effective educator cannot deny. Utilizing these key
concepts along with proper classroom management will ensure
success as a future elementary education teacher.
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