Conor Fenton
Teaching Philosophy
My Philosophy Statement is a purposeful and reflective essay about my teaching beliefs and practices. It is my independent narrative of not only my ideas in the teaching and learning process but also concrete evidence of how I will enact these beliefs in the classroom. I believe that all learning outcomes should be student centred, active learning activities is something I always have tried to incorporate into classes. I think students can obtain a deeper understanding of a topic once it is student lead. I agree strongly with Jerome Bruner and his scaffolding theory. I believe that the scaffold must be built by the students while being assisted by the teacher.
Upon building the scaffold, students can engage a more in-depth understanding. while a student-centred approach is effective in learning it is important that the right students are instilled into group work to give every group the best possible chance to succeed the given tasks. Douglas McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y approach towards human work and motivation is a theory I apply when creating groups. In order for this to happen, I am willing to invest time in getting to know students.
I believe that looking after a students wellbeing is the most important role of a teacher. without a sense of belonging a student won't have the focus that is required for them to reach their potential. I believe in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and that all these needs must be met in order for a student to reach self-actualisation. however, I also believe in Douglas McGregor's theory, that individuals either fall under the classification of Theory X where people must be motivated by other people and don't work on their own initiative. Classification Y where people are self-motivated and will try and work to reach their full potential. Thus I believe that while a student might have all their needs fulfilled they still won't meat self-actualization without being motivated by the teacher.
The Hillside Players Dramatics Society
