Philosophy of Education

As a teacher, I would like to see my students succeed in all areas as much as possible. Specifically, as a special education teacher, I will be working with students who will have many different needs, goals, and challenges. Technology provides me with a tool to assist these students in many aspects of their learning. I want to discover an abundance of strategies and various technological tools that not only works for all students in general, but I can use when working individually with one student. All students do not learn in the same manner. It's important that I individualize instruction towards the learning styles of my students.

I want to see progression and I want to see a difference in my students Better yet, I want to make a difference. I want to be involved with the success students achieve and for them to feel good about themselves and their accomplishments. School shouldn't become a place they dread, but an environment they are a part of and know the significance of. Technology allows both the teacher and student with an opportunity to enhance, modify, and individualize learning. Also, it can make learning interactive, creative and exciting. My hopes are that with the use of technology, the students are not only more involved, but they want to participate, which will enhance their educational experience and how they think about school and learning.

When deciding how my students learn best or which tools will best assist them, I’ll decide directly from them. It is important that I notice and analyze what is most beneficial for each student. I will need to know their strengths, weaknesses, the best strategies, etc. The great thing about technology is it can be used to assist a student in an area of weakness, or it can be used to enhance one of their strengths. In either case, technology can increase students’ confidence on their abilities and capabilities. If students have confidence, it may eliminate stress that affects their performance. I will praise them for any success they achieve. It may be something as simple as completing an assignment, or something more profound as in finally grasping a concept we've been teaching for weeks.

First, it is important that educators are aware of technology they can use and have access to. I can do research or ask other educators. Also, I should know about the different types of programs available. Students evolve throughout the year and I will receive new students yearly, thus I will work with many different types of learners throughout my career. If I know about different programs, it allows me to decide with one may work best with a specific student. Second, I should familiarize myself with the tools and programs available. In depth knowledge of the program isn't required, but knowing the basics and how to navigate will make it easier when I actually have to use the program or technology with a student.

The greatest pleasure I could receive as a teacher would be to see my students succeed. Thus, I will use various technologies, materials, tools, and teaching styles to assist my students in their academics and success.