Develop your own Teaching Philosophy Statement
• “A teaching philosophy statement is a written description of your values, goals, and beliefs regarding both teaching and learning” (Chism, 1998). Your teaching philosophy shapes the way you introduce, teach, and relate to the curriculum you are teaching. This philosophy is very evident when you begin teaching, and your attitude easily shapes the way that you present content.
• Make your Teaching Statement brief and well written.
• Use a narrative, first-person approach. Make your statement personal.
• Make it specific rather than abstract. Ground your ideas in 1-2 concrete examples, whether experienced or anticipated. This will help the reader to better visualize you in the classroom.
• Be discipline specific.
• Avoid jargon and technical terms. Do not repeat what you have stated elsewhere such as in your CV or cover letters. Your teaching philosophy statement should complement other documents.
• Be sincere and unique.
Your philosophy should not be more than 3 pages.
In writing this assignment, take note of the following:
My teaching philosophy centers around creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to engage with the material and with each other. I believe that every student brings unique experiences and perspectives to the classroom, and it is my responsibility as an educator to create opportunities for all students to contribute and learn from each other.
I firmly believe in the power of active learning and strive to incorporate a variety of interactive activities into my teaching. Whether it be group discussions, case studies, or hands-on experiments, I aim to create a dynamic and engaging classroom environment that fosters critical thinking and collaboration.
One concrete example of my teaching philosophy in action is when I implemented a project-based learning assignment in my biology course. Students were tasked with designing and conducting their own research project, allowing them to apply the concepts they had learned in class to real-world scenarios. Through this project, students not only gained a deeper understanding of the material but also developed valuable skills such as problem-solving and communication.
In addition to promoting active learning, I also prioritize creating a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment. I strive to create a space where all students feel valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. By promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion, I aim to foster a sense of community within the classroom and encourage students to learn from one another's perspectives.
Overall, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education is a collaborative and transformative process. I am committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students are empowered to reach their full potential and become lifelong learners.