Chanelle LaCross

Philosophy of Education

            I find it hard to limit myself to one definite philosophy of education. Rather, I see myself leaning mostly towards the Cognitivist approach to education, while still encompassing some aspects from Behaviorism and Social Reconstructionism. The classroom is unpredictable and students are diverse in many ways. School is our way of preparing the youth for their future and teachers must strive to do just that. By any means necessary.  If your students respond to the traditional styles of teaching, then hit the books hard. But, if they are more hands on and visual, create some curriculum-related games or do group projects. Whatever works best, you have to go with the flow.

            I believe that my actual style of teaching will vary depending on what my objectives are at that point and time. I am mostly torn between Cognitivist and Social Recontructionist beliefs when it comes to my role as a teacher. As much as I know students hate book work, notes and definitions, it is absolutely necessary that they learn the material before they can explore its concepts.  I would like to create a classroom environment that supports collaborative, group-thinking. After observing actual classes, I have learned that when a student is able to help another student, the rewards are twofold. Not only does the inquiring pupil walk away with greater understanding of the material, but the teaching student is also able to reinforce the knowledge which he/she already possessed.  Most school children find mathematics to be dreadfully boring. But, I hope to challenge that preconception by persistently presenting my students with stimulating lessons, based on real life applications. I find it to be especially important that math concepts are taught effectively, for they are the basis of so many other fields (i.e.: Computer Programming, meteorology, engineering, etc.). If I can equip my students with some knowledge of concepts that provokes future exploration then I will have accomplished my ultimate goal.

            When I think about my disciplinarian stand, I can see some Behaviorist values come to the surface. While I intend on working with and for my students at all times; I also will demand the respect that I deserve as the leader of my classroom. Disrespect will not go unpunished.  As a matter of fact, I plan on making the golden rule of my classroom, respect. Not only towards me, but towards themselves and each other.  The best thing about it is that I am still preparing them for the real word. Because, out there if you do not give it, you do not get it. I know that trying to manage a class of 20+ hormone-raging, adolescent youths is going to be an extreme challenge. I figure, if I can start with this one solid rule, most everything else should fall into place. I do not want to become one of those overbearing, authoritarian types. If a student messes up and it is something silly or small, I would like to approach the issue one-on-one before running to my principal and dumping my problems on him/her. Call me a hopeless optimist, but I truly believe that all people are inherently good. Hence, I think kind, caring words can sometimes be far more effective than any punishment. Children really just crave the attention. Whether it is good or bad does not matter to them. If I could just divert their energy into classroom instruction rather than destruction, I will be alright.

            It is easy to see that my philosophical beliefs are still in a stage of infancy. I have only just begun my journey to becoming a teacher. I still have much to learn and even more to experience. While my philosophical niche is still up for change, my goals are sure to stay the same. I hope to provide my students with an education that enables them to value mathematics. I want to be a partner to them as they develop vital problem solving skills and gain confidence in their own abilities. When it comes time to wish my students luck as they venture off into the world, I will take satisfaction in knowing that I helped create educated, socially responsible young adults who are sure to make positive contributions to society in their lifetimes.