An essential component of a teacher portfolio is your educational philosophy. This assignment requires that you develop or refine your personal educational philosophy and ground it in the philosophies and theories studied in chapter 5 and 6 in the text.
This task has you grappling with the fundamental cultural and ethical questions that have been debated by educators for centuries and to relate these questions to the daily demands of teaching.
From my experience students have difficulty condensing their ideas and/or linking their ideas to theory. PLEASE feel free to email me your paper in advance and I will offer assistance. Do not send me a draft the day before the paper is due. An example is in the Canvas file section and a ppt describing various theories is also posted.
Some questions you might consider including in your philosophy are: What is the primary goal of education? What knowledge should be emphasized?
In the field in which you teach, what are the most effective teaching methods, and how should learning and teaching be organized?
Which of the philosophies studied in chapters 5-6 most closely reflect your philosophy (you can integrate more then one theory)? Make sure to explain your answer and provide examples where needed. It is also a talking piece in representing yourself in professional settings and interviews.
Discuss your educational philosophy (theoretical frame) and provide concrete examples of these core beliefs based on your life experiences. You may use quotes from theory that represent your belief system.
There should be a clear and defined educational thesis statement. For example, in my introduction I stated, My educational philosophy emphasizes active student involvement (Dewey), reflective practice (Dewey), Social Reconstructivist elements (Brameld), and is grounded in culturally relevant pedagogical practices (Howard). Make sure there is a link to educational theorists.
The subsequent paragraphs should explain each of the components described in that thesis statement. 2 pages (no more)