Educational Philosophy for Laura Bishop All children have the right to a balanced education that will allow

them to reach their full potential as responsible and contributing members of an ever-changing global society. It is my desire as an educator to provide students with quality programs, which will develop the skills of lifelong learning in a safe, caring environment enhanced by community support. My philosophy of education demonstrates my opinion in five key areas: the nature of the student, the role of the teacher, curriculum emphasis, teaching methodologies, and the social function of an educational institution. Students are curious, creative, energetic, and unique individuals who should be provided with opportunities for discovery and exploration. I believe that all students are capable of learning and making beneficial contributions to a changing and diverse society. Every student is unique in their style of learning and views on various issues, thus they contribute to the diversity of the classroom through the sharing and gaining of knowledge. The diversity and potential of students requires a respected and knowledgeable teacher who guides learning in a firm, fair, flexible, and fun way. The role of the teacher is to provide a positive and safe learning environment in which teaching is adapted to the students styles and interests. Teachers must ensure that their students are equipped with the skills needed to function in the real world. This means not only providing basic, academic knowledge, but also allowing for individual inquiry and the development of essential social skills. Taking into account the individuality of students and the role of a teacher as a guiding instructor, I believe the curriculum should be tailored to consider what is important to the students and what will be most useful to them in the real world. It should incorporate these ideas with the common basic body of knowledge and content requirements by differentiating the process and/or the product. In this way, learning will become more meaningful and concrete. Similarly, the methods of teaching used should be considerate of students differences. Teachers have the responsibility of reaching all types of learners: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. This means that they should use both direct and indirect instruction when teaching. A variation of teaching methods such as hands on activities, videos, field trips, and group discussions will ensure the classroom is an interesting and fun environment that encourages the learning and development of all students.

Lastly, as an educator I believe that educational institutions have the responsibility of providing for the development of socially aware and respectful students. This means that students are provided with the skills and knowledge needed to live in a culturally diverse society. The classroom should be a safe space that promotes the following of rules and respect for authority. Rules, routines, and other regulations will facilitate skills needed for lifelong learning and social acceptance. I believe that teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. I hope to create a positive, safe environment that allows for my students to develop a love for learning. Students need to be given a balanced education that encourages the learning of basic skills as well as self-discovery. As an educator, I will strive to provide my students with the best learning experiences possible in order to ensure they become responsible and contributing members of society.