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Jessica Leon
Professor Macias
Liberal Studies 400-02
May 4, 2019

Philosophy of Education

The purpose of schools is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for

the workplace, college, and community. One component is literacy which is essential to a

student’s success. According to Cunningham and Allington (2011), “all of the teachers issued

both skills teaching and reading and writing, but the instructors in the top classrooms linked

ability instruction with literacy” (pg. 4). Integrating subjects aids in maximizing classroom

periods and boosts learning. Also, in school, we are taught to think critically about problems.

Students then are prepared when making decisions in life. At work, we continuously

communicate with our colleagues to develop plans which will productively meet business goals.

School gives us the essential tools which help us in succeeding.

Students must feel safe in the learning environment for successful study. Teachers

should not focus on being authoritarians because it causes an unpleasant emotion for children.

Pinto (2013) states, “as educators, we regularly assume that others understand authority

relationships in the identical manner that we do” (pg. 28). I remember when my teacher would

become upset if a student expressed their opinion, and it made me afraid to voice what I thought

since I did not know how she would react. Moreover, I believe routines should be established in

class as it provides for time management. Teachers will lose precious instructional time if their

classroom is unorganized. Children must be presented with surroundings that encourage

learning.

Social justice means having high expectations for all students. “If we permit students to

think that we do not anticipate them to turn in homework, even though that is their pattern, they
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will feel our belief has diminished” (Davis, 2012, pg. 138). Students require encouragement in

their academic efforts and should not feel disregarded. Additionally, different types of aids are

useful in instruction. Davis (2012) mentions that “utilizing graphic organizers supports student

learning” (pg. 141). Educators supply children with worksheets which will help them to order

their ideas systematically. In my class, my teacher gave us a Five Paragraph Essay Outline to

arrange our thoughts. I felt this helped me in writing my essay since I already had my ideas

written. Instructors formulate ways that will reinforce optimal student achievement.

The curricular vision which I feel is desirable is one where children learn in diverse

settings. In my opinion, lecture-based classes are not as engaging as other forms. Students

should originate discoveries through discussions. Not only is conversation crucial, but

challenging content is key in the classroom. Davis (2012), believes, “as teachers, it is our

obligation to issue rigorous curriculum, along with the scaffolding every student needs to reach a

high level” (pg. 101). Lessons are designed following a formula while keeping students’ abilities

in mind. The material learned in class can be demanding, yet instructors must ensure objectives

are achievable. Children demand motivation from their teachers and support enables them to

triumph.

Effective educators are those who understand that each child learns differently. “One of

the most fundamental principles of successful instruction is that teachers must adapt their

teaching to the requirements of their students” (Cunningham and Allington, 2011, pg. 3). Good

teachers try several teaching practices before knowing which one is valuable. Furthermore,

exceptional instructors continue to develop their craft. I will attend professional development

meetings, read books, and familiarize myself with the ever-changing technology. Professionals

acknowledge their work is ongoing and learning is continuous.

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References

Cunningham, P. & Allington, R. L. (2011). Classrooms that work: They can all read and write

(6th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Pearson.

Davis, B. M. (2012). How to Teach Students Who Don’t Look Like You: Culturally Responsive

Teaching Strategies (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.

Pinto, L. E. (2013). From Discipline to Culturally Responsive Engagement: 45 Classroom

Management Strategies (1st ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.