Maya Cohen
The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go. - Dr. Seuss
Educator in training
My teaching philosophy
My philosophy of education is to promote a welcoming and safe environment for all. I would like to create an inclusive classroom by promoting mutual acceptance and respect. As classrooms are widely diverse, I want all my students to feel welcomed and seen in the classroom. I will create a safe and engaging environment by creating lessons and activities that are interactive and make learning fun. I strongly believe in a hands-on approach where students can learn by trial and error. Furthermore, I will implement a student-centred classroom and ensure it fits the children’s individual needs. I will motivate and push each student to reach their full potential to create successful students.
As you browse my philosophy of education, you will see the main aspects that I will explore and focus on in my classroom.
Motivate students:
As educators, it is vital to motivate our students. Regardless of students' abilities, all students should be given the opportunity to do their best and to know that their teachers are supportive of them. I displayed this during my stage by providing students with constant positive affirmations and by providing fun and engaging classroom work.
Technology:
As we continue to advance technologically, it is essential to incorporate technology in our classrooms. Technology can allow students to develop ideas independently and partake in interactive online games and quizzes. I have incorporated this in my stage by creating online lessons displayed on the Smartboard. Furthermore, I have incorporated online games such as math and English language arts allowing students to continue to develop their skills and navigate various educational platforms.
Hands-on approach:
I believe it is vital for students to be involved in their own learning and to incorporate a student-centred classroom. When using a hands-on approach, allows students to interact and engage with the material allowing them to further their understanding. I incorporated this throughout my stage by providing my students with various opportunities to work hands-on and teach themselves.
Inclusive environment:
As classrooms are incredibly diverse, it is crucial to be considerate and respectful of others. It is also essential to provide students with the opportunity to be open-minded and learn about all types of individuals. It is vital to educate children on the importance of inclusiveness inside and outside of the classroom. I incorporated this throughout my stage by providing students with a diverse library and many lessons on different cultures and different types of individuals around the world.
Differentiated learning:
As students have various needs, we must provide them with the possibility to perform their best. This can include differentiated seating options for students who cannot work seated at a desk. This can also include modified worksheets and tests. Furthermore, providing students with visual, auditory and kinesthetic ways of learning.
Multiculturalism:
Today, we live in a very multicultural world. This is something seen commonly in schools today. This is why it is important to educate the youth so that all students can feel seen and respected in a safe environment.
Fair evaluation:
It is vital to provide students with a fair evaluation system that reflects their levels and capabilities. This can benefit both individual work and group work. Furthermore, providing students with rubrics and expectations will benefit their ability to understand.
Knowing your students:
In order to help students succeed in the classroom, it is vital that we know the strengths, weaknesses and interests of our students. This can allow teachers to create engaging and interesting lessons and activities. As well forming proper connections with our students can allow students to achieve greater success.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."- Nelson Mandela