After taking so many theory classes this summer, I am left with a mental overload.  I enjoy the dialogue and debates, yet I can't help but feel that none of the "isms" really worked for me.  Constructivism was great, but often unrealistic.  Behaviorism seemed to treat kids like robots.  I loved parts of the critical pedagogy, but I think there is a time and a place to follow the social institutions.  So, I sat down and asked, "Why did I first start to teach?"  I began with a confusing web and then typed up this table. 

I think my heart wars against the standardized education system and I yearn for authenticity, so I call my philosophy "authentic education," but I realize it's nothing new.  I raile against the one-size-fits-all, standardized approach, where students are data and teachers are trained automatons. The term "authentic" is probably out there and there is nothing profound about it.  Yet, to my core, this is what I believe:

Category

Philosophy

Purpose
  • To think better about life

Teachers
  • Idea of vocation – based upon who you are
  • Role of a mentor
  • Live what they teach

Student Identity
  • Duality
  • Need the freedom to be themselves

Methods / Pedagogy
  • Higher-level thinking
  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Creativity
  • A balanced approach to technology
  • Service Learning

Content
  • Relates to life
  • Leads to wisdom
  • Concept of mystery
  • Personal
  • Philosophical
  • Practical

Classroom Management
  • Realistic consequences – logical
  • Based upon a relationship
  • Leadership rather than management

Assessment
  • Based upon growth
  • Realistic – fits with life

Share this post: Email It | Bookmark It | Digg This | Reddit | Stumble It
Add to favorites: Favorite Post | Favorite Blog | Favorite Author