With the coursework I have completed at Cal State University Long Beach and the experiences I have gained from observational time in classrooms, I have developed a personal teaching philosophy that I intend to implement in my future classrooms.
As an educator in the visual arts, I want my students to expand on their creativity and have the utmost freedom for self-expression within each lesson. In exploring and experimenting in various art mediums, techniques, and styles, I aim for each student to find their own place within the arts. I believe that the study of the arts is an important element to education today, and that every student should have equal access to it. Studying the arts can further student development in other subjects, provide a place where students can communicate in a visual form, and allow for the use of both the left and right side of the brain. It is also important that my creative lessons connect to practical applications within the field, such as understanding historical or cultural contexts and future careers in the arts.
I feel prepared for an inclusive classroom, and will look to my students needs in order to prep, modify and adjust lesson plans as needed. As an educator, it is ultimately my responsibility to provide not only a safe classroom environment, but also a fair playing field where all students have the opportunity to succeed. In building a foundation where students can succeed regardless of varying disabilities, challenges or needs, I am creating an atmosphere where learning can ultimately take place. I also intend to take a collaborative approach with fellow teachers and parents, if it means we are helping a student to reach their goals. It is important to me that students, parents, administrators, and the community all view me as an approachable, nondiscriminatory, and fair educator in the classroom.
I believe that classroom organization is a key component to successfully managing a class and establishing productive and engaging lessons. With an organized and properly arranged classroom environment, students are entering a space that is truly established for learning. In the subject of art where there is a long list of supplies and tools, I aim to teach my students that organization and proper clean up can help towards creative productivity. It is here that I also value group work, and believe that students can work as a group in order to get the job done. By working as a team to maintain this classroom organization, students will see the impact group work can have directly to the classroom atmosphere.
As a future teacher I strive to create meaningful and inviting lessons that engage and interest students in the subject matter. I also understand that as an educator, I too am in a constant state of learning. I aim to remain open to new ideas, receptive to change, and will constantly work towards improving year over year. Most importantly I will always remember to truly enjoy my students and everything they have to offer.