Dena Siegels Educational Philosophy

It is important for teachers to consider their philosophy

regarding education and learning because their beliefs about these

issues will shape their practice. My philosophy of education defines my

thoughts and actions related to teaching.

Theory and Practice

I agree with many principles of the progressivism theory of

education; however, I recognize that I use many theories of education

in my practice. Progressivism is focused on real-world applications

and activities in a cooperative learning environment.

Purpose of School
 In my opinion, the most important part of being educated

requires knowing how to be a cooperative and productive member in

society. I believe that a great purpose of school is to gradually

prepare students for this task. I think that teachers should help

prepare students for moral, economic, educational, and political issues

that they will face in the future, without imposing their personal beliefs

on their students.

It is important that students learn skills so that they can be

prepared for college or a career. I think students should develop

critical thinking skills because this kind of thinking can promote

positive changes in society. Students should also be allowed to

explore their interests and how they are related to possible future

professions. I believe that material should be made relevant to

students interests by explicitly stating real and related current events.

To demonstrate real world experiences, schools should plan field trips

and job shadows.

One critical skill that I believe that students must be taught is

how to work cooperatively with others. Diverse student grouping

teaches students how to work with people who have different

backgrounds, ideas, and personalities. I believe that group work is an

effective way to teach students how to plan and communicate with

others, as well as how to give and receive appropriate feedback

including compliments and criticism.

Student and Teacher Roles and Responsibilities

I believe that teachers should facilitate learning opportunities for

students, and that learning should be student-centered. When

students are given the chance to explore with developmentally

appropriate, engaging learning activities, they are able to connect to

content and improve their critical thinking skills.

In a student-centered classroom, students are actively

constructing their knowledge in authentic ways. They are also

monitoring their thinking and understanding. Teachers create learning

opportunities based on their students interests and prior knowledge.

They should also promote positive social interaction, creative thinking,

content knowledge, and a self-motivated love of learning.

Management

I plan and discuss rules, expectations, and

rewards/consequences to create a positive classroom environment.

When students clearly understand the expectations of the classroom

and are provided with engaging learning activities, there will be fewer

behavior issues, and more time for learning. I also use positive

reinforcement to encourage respect, responsibility, and caring.

Differentiation
 I differentiate my instruction to maximize learning and ensure

that all students are successful. For example, while teaching small

groups of English Language Learners in practicum, I often incorporate

visual supports, graphic organizers, and total physical response to

engage students and clarify concepts and vocabulary. In my future

teaching, I would like incorporate the compacting strategy for students

who need a challenge. I will assess what they know, plan learning

activities to address what they do not know, and use the additional

time for enriched study based on their interests.

Relationships with Peers and Students

I establish effective relationships with my students by getting to

know them personally. In addition, I am respectful and inclusive of

different cultures and languages. When working with students, I am a

warm demander. I am welcoming and kind, but I also have high

expectations for all of my students. I establish effective relationships

with my peers by being respectful, and demonstrating an interest in

their lives. As a future teacher, I will collaborate with my peers to

reflect and develop new ideas.