From Teaching Philosophy to Classroom Practice by Jane Ford, M.A. Adjunct Faculty in Psychology Ivy Tech, Bloomington Campus Adjunct Faculty Conference April 19, 2008

Korn (2003) What is a Teaching Philosophy? teacher’s conscience guide to what we do and what is our teaching identity identify the choices we make as teachers (in the beginning) used for renewal and modification (for experienced philosophers)

Korn (2003) Philosophy can be expressed through: Teacher behaviors syllabus statements types of assignments ways of interacting with students Putting it into writing will help these elements be more thoughtful and deliberate.

Elements of a Statement of Teaching Philosophy They are all yours. In fact, it has been recommended that you do not read another’s teaching philosophy prior to writing your own (Korn, 2003). –Use it for guidance in planning courses and –reflection on our evolving beliefs about teaching. –You might discover discrepancies between your philosophy and your practices. –You also might find “hidden” philosophies that are shown in your behavior and class structure.

My experience with teaching philosophy written for class before teaching assisted in developing first syllabus have revised it over time use it to keep myself honest as to my motives to including teaching elements in the classroom

Connecting Philosophy with Teaching Think about the ways that you can bring to life your teaching philosophy When you find yourself implementing a new teaching element, ask yourself how/where this fits with your philosophy At times, you might realize that your philosophy needs to be amended as you realize the importance of an item to your teaching

To help you think about elements of your philosophy 1.think of the best teacher you had or a composite of teachers. What made them good? What made others not-so-good? 2.Think of a metaphor that describes your teaching. What kind of animal or tree would describe your teaching? 3.Also, think of the elements of how philosophy is expressed: interacting, behaving, assigning, syllabus elements

Starting or Revising Your Philosophy Write 2-3 Philosophical elements that are uppermost in your mind Then generate a couple of teaching techniques you have used that are linked to these (depending on group size) Present your elements and receive input as to other ways to implement these

Examples Some elements I have generated and revised over time…

As time goes on… When you add a new teaching element, use self-examination - ask yourself why you are implementing this element: –in reaction to just a few students –because you are tired and want to do less work –because you are angry at either students or teaching environment –because you have discovered a new element that has gained importance