Running head: TEACHING PHILOSOPHY 1

Teaching Philosophy

Cheryl M. Campbell

University of Texas at Tyler

6/12/2017
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The definition of meaningful learning varies; to me it transcends simply obtaining factual

information of a subject, instead it requires a working knowledge of information so it can be

manipulated, researched, and applied. Through inquiry, this constructionist type of learning

generates valuable and exciting opportunities for new knowledge, and tests the relationship of

existing information within different contexts and environments. As a future nurse educator,

facilitating meaningful learning is a critical goal of teaching, because it better prepares students

for the ongoing challenges of the nursing profession in an ever-changing healthcare system.

Beyond information sharing, teaching is a dynamic process that requires a vast

knowledge base, experience with applying the information, strong communication skills,

thorough assessments of learners needs, and an appropriate utilization of various teaching

modalities that create an environment conducive to learning. I will utilize evidence-based

approaches to identify the needs of the learners to achieve the desired outcomes for the

individual nursing course, the overall degree program objectives, and the calling of the states

nursing practice act. Because nursing is not just a science, I will illustrate the importance of

learning the art of nursing. Through teaching nursing history and theoretical frameworks,

nursing students can better understand the individualized approach of relaying the science to the

bedside in a compassionate and meaningful way. I will model the commitment of being a life-

long learner to demonstrate to students that being successful in the nursing profession requires

continual learning and refinement of practice regardless of work environment.

In creating a teaching and learning environment, I will strive for a balance between

achieving competence and developing passionate inquiry. I recognize that in order to maintain

the professionalism and integrity of the nursing profession, our generation will need to challenge

nursing students to be competent nursing professionals. However, without also imparting the
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desire to take the nursing profession beyond its current boundaries, nursing educators fall short

of adequately preparing students to take nursing into the future. I will provide nursing students

rich experiences to learn how to be successful in nursing and demonstrate the blessing this career

continues to be for me personally and professionally.

As nurses build rapport with their patients to create therapeutic relationships, similarly,

nurse educators need to shape relationships with nursing students. In my experiences as a

clinical instructor I have found that each student has their own why for pursuing nursing. I

find great success in learning each students motivations and supporting them to reach their

goals. In my short teaching career I have become known for being tough, but fair, and invested

in their success. Although I believe we need to be an advocate for our nursing students, much of

educational success is found when we support them in taking ownership of their own education.

This encourages a spirit of inquiry that helps build longevity and success in their future nursing

practice.

As a nurse educator, my hopes and dreams are to inspire nurses to take the nursing

profession to the next level. I believe the old sayings knowledge is power and that hard work

pays off. Striving for education and knowledge has its challenges and costs, but once obtained

it cannot be taken away, and opens doors of opportunity. Therefore, I continue to dream without

limits of where my nursing career will take me in the future and cherish the growth that each new

experience has provided. I am forever grateful for the life that nursing has provided for me and

my family, and look forward to the honor of giving back to other aspiring nurses.