Kelly Tam 

progressivism

If you want things to change, write it down. If you want things to stay the same, keep it in your head. - Daniel Patterson 

progressivism

an educational philosophy founded by John Dewey that supports a student-centered classroom, a positive learning environment, a hands-on (practical) approach to learning, students that learn through personal experience, and teaching students to problem-solve through real-life scenarios.

As an aspiring educator, my promise to my future students is to apply the four simple principles in my classroom in order for them to help reach their full potential. 

1. Create a safe, encouraging, and positive learning environment. 

Students learn effectively when they feel comfortable, secure of themselves and their surroundings. By building a positive learning environment, students will be more willing to take risks and share their own ideas/insights without fear of judgment. By incorporating more collaboration activities amongst students such as small group discussions and working together in groups, this will diminish any fears in the classroom and help them develop their interpersonal skills. 

2. Introduce new concepts from prior knowledge and the interests of the students. 

Presenting new concepts must be introduced and made relevant to students in order for them to build upon their current understanding. By making relationships between students' personal interests and the new material presented to them, this will ultimately increase their retention even after they leave the classroom. 

3. Nurture students in developing real-world skills. 

Developing real-world skills with the context of the subject will help students develop meaning and purpose behind certain tasks. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are the four most important real-world skills that should be developed in any subject. 

Reading serves as a foundation for writing. Reading helps us develop our mind, imagination, creativity, develop our vocabulary, and diction. On the other hand, writing helps us with our communication skills, it gives students a voice, and ultimately fosters our ability to explain and refine our ideas to others and ourselves. 

Public speaking is an important life skill especially in management and leadership positions. Being a good speaker is essential to becoming a good leader and role model. 

Listening is key when communicating with others and developing problem-solving skills. 

While students should walk away with a strong academic foundation, they should also obtain real-life skills that will help them beyond the classroom. 

4. Ask students to justify their answers. 

Asking students the question: Why? is the first step for students discovering the root of the concept. This also helps alleviate any misconceptions and diminish any excess questions. By having students share with the rest of the class how they know will help students who do not understand the concept right away, help them seek a pattern. Furthermore, it is also beneficial for students who are also afraid for asking for help clear up any of their misconceptions. 

Note: My educational philosophy is something I currently still wrestle with constantly. However, with more teaching experience, I believe I will be able to have a more definite philosophy.