An educational philosophy is a personal statement of a teacher's guiding principles about

"big picture" education-related issues, such as how student learning and potential are most
effectively maximized, as well as the role of educators in the classroom, school, community, and
society. In light of this definition, I am of the firm belief that each child is a unique individual
who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature
emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students
meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risktaking, and invites a sharing of ideas. Thus, there are three elements that I believe are conducive
to establishing such an environment. These are, the teacher acting as a guide, allowing the child's
natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and promoting respect for all things and all people as
well as to gain new insights into strategies that frame the teaching and learning thus making
students adoptable to society.
To begin with, education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the
world (Mandela, 1990). When the teacher's role is to guide, providing access to information
rather than acting as the primary source of information, the students' search for knowledge is met
as they learn to find answers to their questions. For students to construct knowledge, they need
the opportunity to discover for themselves and practice skills in authentic situations. Providing
students access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that
reinforce the lesson being studied creates an opportunity for individual discovery and
construction of knowledge to occur. This is how I learnt best and I am always reminded that to
give back such as I have been given was what attracted me to the teaching profession and thus
began my journey at Sam Sharpe Teachers College. Having almost completed my four years of
study and a number of teaching episodes, I have realized that it is through teaching that I will
most accomplish this goal.
In addition, in my own judgement base on observations, teachers must allow the child's
natural curiosity to direct his/her learning. In other words, equally important to self-discovery is
having the opportunity to study things that are meaningful and relevant to one's life and interests.
Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the
passion to learn. One way to take learning in a direction relevant to student interest is to invite
student dialogue about the lessons and units of study. Given the opportunity for input, students
generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than I could have created or

imagined myself. When students have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to work
hard and master the skills necessary to reach their goals.
Moreover, helping students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and
their environment is paramount. This occurs through the opening and sharing of ideas and a
judicious approach to discipline. When the voice of each student is heard, and environment
evolves where students feel free to express themselves. Class meetings are one way to encourage
such dialogue. I believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the
lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and
consistent rules initially and stating the importance of every activity, students are shown respect
for their presence and time. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others, and their
environment.
Additionally, it was Rousseau who said that the purpose of education should be to create
good citizens; hence the focal point of education should be to meet the need of the society. In
agreement with this idea, it is my goal to teach my students with this understanding in mind,
irrespective of their class, gender or socio-economic status. My students should be able to
appreciate the reason why they are being taught a particular topic and will appreciate their
responsibility in using the knowledge and skills they learn to do their part in aiding the growth of
Jamaica, the Caribbean and the world. Dewey said that the relationship between education and
personal experience must be validated in education. Therefore I aim to always assist my students
in seeing the big picture, and how they fit in it.
In concluding, teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. One
of my hopes as an educator is to instil a love of learning in my students, as I share my own
passion for learning with them. I feel there is a need for compassionate, strong, and dedicated
individuals who are excited about working with children. In our competitive society, it is
important for students to not only receive a solid education, but to work with someone who is
aware of and sensitive to their individual needs. I am such a person and will always strive to be
the best educator that I can be.

Reference
Stewart, D. L. (2012). Promoting Moral Growth through Pluralism and Social Justice Education.
New Directions For Student Services, (139), 63-72.
Warde, W. F. (1960). John Deweys Theories of Education. International Socialist Review, Vol. 21.
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Monism (2014). In BELIEVE Religious Information. Retrieved, (April 19, 2015) from
http://mb-soft.com/believe/txn/monism.htm

Rousseau-Key Ideas (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://academic.evergreen.edu/curricular/mit2008/Fall06handouts/ROUSSEAUKEYIDE
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Zagzebski, L. (2004). Epistemic Value Monism. Retrieved from
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