Philosophy of Teaching
-Becky Sargis-
Pedagogy has evolved into a complex weave of physiology, psychology, tradition, and technology. Of course teaching and learning can be analyzed, evaluated, and improved as any other human endeavor, and while I routinely seek new/alternative techniques for teaching, read current research, learn new curriculum topics, etc., absolutely no learning can take place without love, compassion, dedication, and trust. These characteristics are the central pillars of my composition as a human, a mother, and a teacher which allow me to accept and understand my students, fostering the proper environment for true learning. Students who are acknowledged and listened to feel safe and supported.
ALL students deserve to be educated and taught by a teacher who accepts them, recognizes their potential, and knows when and how to challenge them. Teaching is not authoritative practice but rather a stage where the director observes their actors and helps them develop to their full character (who they are). My vision is for a safe, inclusive, and nurturing space where students can relax and focus on learning which encourages growth and exploration, nurtures curiosity, and celebrates creativity, where students can express themselves freely. My vision also addresses student’s need to feel appreciated, included, and satisfaction in their work as they help turn an abstract set of ideas into concrete actions and outcomes.
Leading by example is one of the best strategies I can use as a teacher. My actions will always be analyzed by my students directly and unconsciously. Peer behavior is a strong influencer and I leverage my position to set the tone for all facets of the day. Working with confidence also plays a part in this strategy. Performing my duties with knowledgeable insight conveys confidence in and helps build trust with students. Student outcomes during and after their time with me are a direct measure of my efficacy. I provide my students with the best possible foundation for their academic career. I foster student growth by providing feedback on assignments, discussions and adequate time for group discussions and office hours. Teaching what is relevant to my students now, and in their future, is necessary in order to prepare them for their world.
Exposing my students to the beauty of diversity in the world has been a benefit of being an educator. I advocate and create curriculum for representation of diversity to showcase achievements by people of varying backgrounds. Students exposed to educated people who they relate to feel impowered to strive for their own success. It is important for students to see all people being represented in their studies and to see examples of equality vs equity and understand the difference. I teach my students it is important to learn how to advocate for themselves and others without biases or prejudices.
I love being able to teach and foster the creativity of my students. Teaching comes with high and low points along with challenges that propel me into reaching out to understand more and to grow as an educator, and a human. My goal is to connect with every student, developing them to be ethical people who can take care of many daily personal needs while I instill a passion for learning. My Philosophy Statement will continue to grow and change over the years as our society grows and changes, but my student’s understanding and future success will always be at the heart of my teaching.
-Becky Sargis-
Pedagogy has evolved into a complex weave of physiology, psychology, tradition, and technology. Of course teaching and learning can be analyzed, evaluated, and improved as any other human endeavor, and while I routinely seek new/alternative techniques for teaching, read current research, learn new curriculum topics, etc., absolutely no learning can take place without love, compassion, dedication, and trust. These characteristics are the central pillars of my composition as a human, a mother, and a teacher which allow me to accept and understand my students, fostering the proper environment for true learning. Students who are acknowledged and listened to feel safe and supported.
ALL students deserve to be educated and taught by a teacher who accepts them, recognizes their potential, and knows when and how to challenge them. Teaching is not authoritative practice but rather a stage where the director observes their actors and helps them develop to their full character (who they are). My vision is for a safe, inclusive, and nurturing space where students can relax and focus on learning which encourages growth and exploration, nurtures curiosity, and celebrates creativity, where students can express themselves freely. My vision also addresses student’s need to feel appreciated, included, and satisfaction in their work as they help turn an abstract set of ideas into concrete actions and outcomes.
Leading by example is one of the best strategies I can use as a teacher. My actions will always be analyzed by my students directly and unconsciously. Peer behavior is a strong influencer and I leverage my position to set the tone for all facets of the day. Working with confidence also plays a part in this strategy. Performing my duties with knowledgeable insight conveys confidence in and helps build trust with students. Student outcomes during and after their time with me are a direct measure of my efficacy. I provide my students with the best possible foundation for their academic career. I foster student growth by providing feedback on assignments, discussions and adequate time for group discussions and office hours. Teaching what is relevant to my students now, and in their future, is necessary in order to prepare them for their world.
Exposing my students to the beauty of diversity in the world has been a benefit of being an educator. I advocate and create curriculum for representation of diversity to showcase achievements by people of varying backgrounds. Students exposed to educated people who they relate to feel impowered to strive for their own success. It is important for students to see all people being represented in their studies and to see examples of equality vs equity and understand the difference. I teach my students it is important to learn how to advocate for themselves and others without biases or prejudices.
I love being able to teach and foster the creativity of my students. Teaching comes with high and low points along with challenges that propel me into reaching out to understand more and to grow as an educator, and a human. My goal is to connect with every student, developing them to be ethical people who can take care of many daily personal needs while I instill a passion for learning. My Philosophy Statement will continue to grow and change over the years as our society grows and changes, but my student’s understanding and future success will always be at the heart of my teaching.