Philosophy of EducationI believe past experiences contribute to the knowledge my students arrive with when they enter my classroom. The process of learning is the process of building on those past experiences. All students have prior knowledge and experiences, therefore all children can learn, and learn best when they can connect a new idea to a concept they already know. It is my responsibility as an educator to acknowledge their prior knowledge and give opportunities to have new experiences in the classroom.
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Technology; more than just a tool.Technology should not to be used for the sake of using it. Technology is a way for educators to enhance instruction in a way that is unique and beneficial for the children. I utilize technology to make concepts more visual, interactive, and most of all, engaging. Learning can easily be obstructed if students are not actively engaged in the lesson. From the simplicity of a calculator, to the amazing complexity of a smart board, technology is a gateway for teachers to take ordinary lessons and enhance them to make them more engaging. The fluency of technology needed in our world today surpasses itself every year. Generation after generation of students need to not only be able to use technology, but create, innovate, and push the boundaries of what they're comfortable with. I am constantly reminding my students that many jobs available to them in the future don't exist today! This mindset is absolutely crucial for our younger generations so they can truly feel they have the skills to contribute to society.
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Science: The Next GenerationAs being part of the curriculum team in the state of Michigan, there is a huge shift being made in the state in regards to standards and pedagogy. I embrace the ideas and was an initial piloter in the district. Using the NGSX techniques, we created models, students were engaged in productive discussion, and we mind-mapped the unit in a way that connected with the students.
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Empathize with ELL StudentsLiving in a foreign country for 6 months, without being able to speak, read, or write most of the language has made me able to make a whole new level of connection to those children who arrive to the United States and are illiterate. It is a frustrating, challenging, and lonely time. I know how those students feel and therefore could help them adjust as quickly as possible. Students need to feel safe and welcome, and that is something a teacher can provide. Educators need to make sure not to overwhelm the student assignments that go beyond their ability to comprehend. When things got “too difficult” for me to understand in Japan, I became overwhelmed, retreated, and didn’t even want to try. That’s what I’m afraid students who are learning English may do if they become overwhelmed. It is good to challenge, but it needs to be a reachable goal for the student in order for them to be motivated to learn.
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Integration of SubjectsDue to the overabundant demands of the average curriculum, integration is essential. Captivating math, science, social studies, and language arts across the curriculum is one of my strengths as a professional. Weaving subject matters together is a wonderful challenge that I embrace in my everyday teaching. Learning should not be confined to the walls of a classroom, nor is it limited to academic subjects. My responsibility as a teacher is to help students synthesize information and bridge the gaps between home, school, and themselves. Meaningful integrated subject matter lessons allow me to fulfill these responsibilities efficiently.
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