philosophy of teaching
My role as an instructor and educator in Second
Language Studies is to prepare English language learners for an ever-changing
world in which English use by second-language speakers is expanding and
spreading at exponential rates. It is
considered to be a global language and as such, it is my goal to teach learners
to not only to be prepared for and to excel in their academic tests, but also
develop communicative English at such a level as to easily and effectively manage
their conversational English skills with both native and nonnative speakers. Therefore, my three primary focuses in
educating language learners are encouraging them to take risks, to understand
that with globalization of the English language that they will interact with
nonnative English speakers in many different environments with a variety of
dialects, and for the learners to develop leadership skills through their
facilitation of small groups in the learning environment. It is important for students to develop a
sense of pride in their command of the English language. They will be able to comfortably and
successfully engage in conversations with others with a positive exchange of
ideas. I also include culture in my
language teaching allowing the learners to have a greater understanding of
native English speaker’s culture while at the same time I am personally
sensitive to their native culture. I am
very keen at identifying and praising diversity within the classroom, as it is
that diversity which helps learners to prepare for a world of interaction with
English speakers from the many different countries with many different dialects. I also believe that it is important to focus
on other areas during the teaching/learning environment that also helps the learners
to develop academically, individually and these other areas of focus will
prepare them for the outside world and apply what they have learned to continue
to be successful in the workforce.
Globalization
I believe that we are living in a world that continues to become more and more global as each day passes. Globalization is a term that has become increasingly realized since the 1930’s, and represents the social and economic interconnectedness of the very large and diverse populations around the world. A significant part of globalization is the increasing use of English within the global community within the world of business and trade. This globalization creates increasing opportunities which were previously not available. I believe that learning English enhances the opportunities for all people to be able to bring their intellect and other technical skills to the world stage, therefore improving both their marketability within the local and global workplace thus improving their earning ability. Having traveled the world visiting and living in a variety of countries and experiencing so many cultures provides me with unique insight to this great globalized world in which we live. I bring this knowledge to the classroom via activities and exercises that allow the learners to try and see the world through the perspective of others. One activity that I enjoy, as well as learners is a United Nations project where the learners in small groups represent different countries and their interests. Having to learn about these countries and presenting the differing perspectives from the point of view of those populations helps students to develop greater insight into globalization and how so many nations have interconnectedness, which binds nations and people together for mutual prosperity.
Risk-Taking
I believe that it is also important for learners to take risks and for us as educators to let them know that it is ok to make mistakes. Because it is these mistakes that shall help them to grow and learn. They will learn what is appropriate and not appropriate. Risk-taking also helps to build self-confidence which is a key element in language learning. By risk-taking and learning how to overcome mistakes students will develop greater character, the fears and apprehensions which frequently hold people back from success is what I aim to develop the strength in my students to overcome. I do this by assessing learners individually, and especially engaging the shyer learners, in order to help them develop confidence to participate in activities among their peers. My teaching style is such that I encourage risk taking, I am not critical of mistakes and through correcting mistakes together and helping students to understand and see errors they made, they will become more confident in their decisions without fear of being a failure. They will start to understand that sometimes greater success is achieved by knowing what you have done wrong and how to fix it.
Leadership
It is important for learners to develop a sense of confidence through the role of leadership as students. Though there is a lot that can be learned in a large group setting, I personally believe that there is greater personal learning and teamwork development in small groups. As I conduct small group learning, not only do I engage with the learners but I also have them to rotate as small group leaders. I believe having the students facilitate small group activities helps to instill leadership qualities within the learners. I help them to understand motivation, purpose and direction which are key components of leadership. By the learners understanding these concepts, and how to be creative in the implementation of these concepts within the classroom they will further develop as individuals with the ability to lead others in projects and life. These skills will also help to improve their academic success and beyond in the larger world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I am a very dynamic educator; I love diversity within the classroom and look forward to the many challenges which will be present within the classroom. With my emphasis and beliefs on the importance of globalization, risk-taking and leadership I believe I will provide learners with the tools for success. I embrace globalization and mentoring my students to be prepared for an ever growing globalized world in which they will make their mark. By keeping an open mind I know that I will be more approachable for my students and colleagues in order to collaborate together in overcoming challenges within the field of education. I am confident I will be an asset for any institution that I work, in that I have extensive experience in dealing with problems and people from a large variety of backgrounds. I maintain a positive outlook on life and the situations presented which help to create strength and encourages personal growth as well as the ability create an atmosphere which is conducive to learning.
Globalization
I believe that we are living in a world that continues to become more and more global as each day passes. Globalization is a term that has become increasingly realized since the 1930’s, and represents the social and economic interconnectedness of the very large and diverse populations around the world. A significant part of globalization is the increasing use of English within the global community within the world of business and trade. This globalization creates increasing opportunities which were previously not available. I believe that learning English enhances the opportunities for all people to be able to bring their intellect and other technical skills to the world stage, therefore improving both their marketability within the local and global workplace thus improving their earning ability. Having traveled the world visiting and living in a variety of countries and experiencing so many cultures provides me with unique insight to this great globalized world in which we live. I bring this knowledge to the classroom via activities and exercises that allow the learners to try and see the world through the perspective of others. One activity that I enjoy, as well as learners is a United Nations project where the learners in small groups represent different countries and their interests. Having to learn about these countries and presenting the differing perspectives from the point of view of those populations helps students to develop greater insight into globalization and how so many nations have interconnectedness, which binds nations and people together for mutual prosperity.
Risk-Taking
I believe that it is also important for learners to take risks and for us as educators to let them know that it is ok to make mistakes. Because it is these mistakes that shall help them to grow and learn. They will learn what is appropriate and not appropriate. Risk-taking also helps to build self-confidence which is a key element in language learning. By risk-taking and learning how to overcome mistakes students will develop greater character, the fears and apprehensions which frequently hold people back from success is what I aim to develop the strength in my students to overcome. I do this by assessing learners individually, and especially engaging the shyer learners, in order to help them develop confidence to participate in activities among their peers. My teaching style is such that I encourage risk taking, I am not critical of mistakes and through correcting mistakes together and helping students to understand and see errors they made, they will become more confident in their decisions without fear of being a failure. They will start to understand that sometimes greater success is achieved by knowing what you have done wrong and how to fix it.
Leadership
It is important for learners to develop a sense of confidence through the role of leadership as students. Though there is a lot that can be learned in a large group setting, I personally believe that there is greater personal learning and teamwork development in small groups. As I conduct small group learning, not only do I engage with the learners but I also have them to rotate as small group leaders. I believe having the students facilitate small group activities helps to instill leadership qualities within the learners. I help them to understand motivation, purpose and direction which are key components of leadership. By the learners understanding these concepts, and how to be creative in the implementation of these concepts within the classroom they will further develop as individuals with the ability to lead others in projects and life. These skills will also help to improve their academic success and beyond in the larger world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I am a very dynamic educator; I love diversity within the classroom and look forward to the many challenges which will be present within the classroom. With my emphasis and beliefs on the importance of globalization, risk-taking and leadership I believe I will provide learners with the tools for success. I embrace globalization and mentoring my students to be prepared for an ever growing globalized world in which they will make their mark. By keeping an open mind I know that I will be more approachable for my students and colleagues in order to collaborate together in overcoming challenges within the field of education. I am confident I will be an asset for any institution that I work, in that I have extensive experience in dealing with problems and people from a large variety of backgrounds. I maintain a positive outlook on life and the situations presented which help to create strength and encourages personal growth as well as the ability create an atmosphere which is conducive to learning.