Philosophy of Teaching

 As a teacher, have you ever been asked to write a Philosophy of Teaching Statement? It may sound daunting, but it's simply a written expression of your beliefs and values as an educator. It's an opportunity to let your prospective employers get to know the real you beyond your resume. It's essential for teachers in the education system and TESOL teachers, as some employers require it as part of their portfolio or for interviews.


The Second Language Teaching & Curriculum Center (TiPPS) offers some suggestions on how to write an effective Philosophy of Teaching Statement. First, review some sample teaching statements and brainstorm on what teaching means to you. Answering the following questions will help you to brainstorm:


What would your students say about your teaching?

What would your supervisor say about your teaching?

Think about an activity that you implemented successfully that reflects the kind of teacher you want to be. What made it successful?

How do you establish rapport in your classes?

Think about an activity that didn't work out. Why do you think it didn't work, and how would you change it?

How do you motivate your students?

What are your thoughts on grading?

What do you think are important attributes of successful language learners?

What do you do for your own professional development?

What makes an excellent language teacher?

What are your beliefs about language learners?

What are you interested in researching? How does it relate to your teaching?

What have you learned in your studies that you want to apply to your teaching?

How can teachers improve their practice?

What do you think is the most important issue in language teaching today?

What are your main concerns as a language teacher, and what can you do about them?

How do people learn second languages, and how does instruction help?

How do people become good at speaking, reading, or writing in a second language? How does instruction and materials help?

TiPPS also suggests including some of the following components in your Philosophy of Teaching Statement:


The teacher's role and responsibilities

The student's role and responsibilities

The balance of learning and use

Teaching and learning in general

Teaching and learning second languages

Teaching as a form of activism

Content

Meaningfulness

Speaking to student's needs

Classroom dynamics and class atmosphere

Affective and emotional components

Evaluation and placement testing

Being flexible

Theory and practice

The classroom as a learning environment for all

The teacher's position on the teacher-as-dictator versus teacher-as-facilitator continuum

Learning styles

Tuning in to the students

Teacher awareness, reflection, and development

Discipline

Rapport

Motivation

Ideal versus reality

Collaborating with other teachers

Reflective practice

In summary, a Philosophy of Teaching Statement is a reflection of your values and beliefs as an educator, which allows prospective employers to get to know you beyond your resume. Answering some key questions and including specific components can help you write an effective statement.

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