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Guide to Writing your Teaching Philosophy
What is a Teaching Philosophy?
Your teaching philosophy represents your philosophical orientation to teaching and learning.
It states your beliefs on how learning takes place and expresses the principles you use to guide
your teaching in order to bring that learning to fruition.
Why develop a Teaching Philosophy?
Developing a teaching philosophy is a reflective process. By identifying your personal
philosophy of teaching, and continuously examining it, you grow as a teacher, and become
cognizant of how your teaching impacts your students.
How do I get started?
Start by brainstorming about content. Think about your experiences as a student. What were
some characteristics of good teachers you have had? Think about your teaching experiences.
What are your strengths? What makes you a good teacher? What are your personal goals as a
teacher? What activities do you do in the classroom that support your beliefs about effective
teaching? The answers to these questions will lead to the language you use in your statement.
Be aware, however, that there is no required or prescribed content to include. Your teaching
philosophy is very personal – it reflects
you, not a pre-determined set of principles.
What format should I use?
The teaching philosophy statement is generally1-2 pages in length. Most philosophies are
written in the present tense. Try to avoid clichés and common popular phrases unless you
personalize them. When possible, describe methods or strategies you use that achieve your
goals and reflect the principles that are important to you. Use examples to help readers
visualize you as a teacher. Make your statement unique; your readers do not want to see a
“textbook” philosophy statement. They want to see you - what drives your teaching
and how you bring that to life.
Additional resources that can get you started:
Last Updated October 4, 2007 |
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