Personal Learning Philosophy Paper

Personal Learning Philosophy

Children are unique individuals deserving respect, a quality education, a positive educational environment, caring and nurturing teachers, quality teacher-student relationships allowing open discussions as well as positive parent-teacher partnerships aimed at aiding the child’s learning. In kindergarten, I discovered the impact teachers and schools have on youth and realized my purpose in life. My practice shall provide positive learning environments, meaningful learning opportunities, open and positive professional relationships with students to create a full impact students’ learning as I will help set the foundation for their learning and development from childhood into adulthood. Providing all that children

Jean Piaget’s Constructivist Learning Theory states children are actively involved in their learning and build knowledge on the pre-existing foundation existing within their developing brains through the use of first-hand experiences, accommodations, and assimilation (Bredekamp, 2014). This theory supports child engagement in learning and explains my desire to make learning fun and engaging instead of traditional “work.” Additionally, Piaget’s concepts of developmental stages detail the steps of children’s cognitive development although the specific ages for each stage are not always reliable, children are unique, and children may develop outside these generalizations (Bredekamp, 2014). Vygotsky’s theory of the Zone of Proximal Development accounts for differences in children’s learning experiences and background knowledge as well as how teachers can help students learn through scaffolding and differentiation ( Vygotsky's developmental theory: An introduction [video file]. 1994; Bredekamp, 2014). Next, I appreciate the Social Cognitive Theory of Albert Bandura, who has bridged the development of a child behaviorally and cognitively (Bredekamp, 2014) with recognition of cultural influences ( Bandura's social cognitive theory: An introduction [video file]. 2003; Bredekamp, 2014). The implementation of these theories within my classroom encourages students to develop with developmentally-appropriate

I will continue to learn through professional development opportunities increasing my efficacy. My beliefs in education are supported by Piaget’s, Bandura’s and Vygotsky’s theories on child development, which will be used when working with students to better understand them. My use of technology to support learning will be increased through the use of smart boards and smart tables, digital media, and resources, in addition to students’ educational games or online libraries. Advocating for student needs and educational practices will expand as each teacher desires the very best for each student they encounter. Although this is not a comprehensive list of all aspects of every teacher’s learning philosophy, these aspects detail my philosophy in support of the different individual learners I can help and educate as an