“Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself.”
John Dewy
When reflecting on this quote, it says that education should not just be a set of skills and knowledge that prepares students for life. Rather it should be a way for children to explore their world, to develop their character, and allow them to engage in learning about community, including things they can do to have a positive impact locally and encourage a ripple effect globally. Learning is a lifelong process, and children need to be encouraged to embrace their learning journey by following their interests, passions, and curiosities. I will implement this philosophy in my classroom by taking students outside for land-based learning where they will be encouraged to explore their world and reflect on how they can make a positive difference in their world. I will plan and implement lessons where students can explore curriculum through hands on activities and allow students opportunities to connect their interests towards learning outcomes. I will plan for a class project or initiative that students can explore, investigate and develop a plan that could be presented to PAC, or city council, etc. to learn how our ideas and actions can provide an avenue for change. I will create a classroom environment that based in social emotional learning where we think of ourselves, others, and the world we live in, and by working together we can create ripple effects that have positive impacts for us and those around us.
For this assignment we were tasked with finding a quote that we connected too and then writing a personal philosophy statement. I learned that I may have a sense of my teaching philosophy and how I envision that as a teacher, but that it is something that I need to fine tune. I want to take time this summer to spend time in nature and revisit this statement to ensure it truly captures my philosophy and how I will implement that in my classroom.
