My philosophy is generally anchored in a student-centered education which is focused on the student's needs and involves them in the process of learning. Students' needs are much more diverse nowadays, and being part of an international institution, multicultural issues should also be addressed. By involving them means to take their ideas into consideration and make them lead the process in a manner that is most comfortable and efficient for them. By allowing them to think, differentiate and conclude using pieces of information, they will take pride in their efforts. Giving them this freedom will make them understand that it is a joy to learn and they hopefully will continue to find joy in learning.
I find my role in this process truly important mainly because I set the stage for their learning. Just like in a play production, it will not materialize if there is no script, marketing, props, backdrop, lights and a director. I am the creative designer and I plan the learning environment and provide the materials for learning. I am the scriptwriter that plots the storyline of learning. I am the technical supervisor that highlights certain aspects of the story through lights and music. I am the marketing specialist that communicates to other key people in the learning process what has been done, what is about to take place, and what is to expect from the production. I am the director that plans the blocking and provides and the proper motivation to learn. Last but not the least, I am the critic that evaluates the performance of the learner.
One realization that stood out during my teaching years is that learning only takes place when the child is motivated. Seldom do preschool children sit down with you to practice writing or learn about phonics, and they will really express their dislike over something.
Grade school children are no different. Some may have learned to conceal their boredom or indifference by pretending to copy notes on the board (but they're actually doodling) or locking their gaze in front (but they're actually daydreaming). Most of them, however, could not help but play, tinker with their belongings, or find an excuse to leave the classroom. It all boils down to how the teacher captures and sustains their attention for them to be able to lead in the learning process.
Progressivism has also shaped my philosophy, where students learn best through meaningful real life experiences. I find that teaching Science is very much grounded in this because it can never be learned only through books. Science is about the world, and what better way to understand it but to live in it, question it, and bask in the beauty of it?
Planning for a Science lesson can be very meticulous because each student should be given an opportunity to experience it, on top of considering their other needs and their pace of learning. Nevertheless, I continue to be driven by my philosophy because I have seen the beauty of what it could bring.
