Teaching philosophy

Through my practicum experiences I have learnt a lot about my own teaching philosophy. I previously felt that knowledge of academics and engaging activities would ensure the success of all of my students. Through my practicum I have learnt that before students can succeed academically, their other needs must be met. I have learnt that even if I supply my students with the most engaging lessons, the events in their social and emotional lives can interfere with their quality of learning. If their other needs are not met (e.g./ food, shelter, clothing),  it will be difficult to ensure their academic success as they may not take the tools that are provided with them and complete their work to their fullest potential. This is something that drastically changed my teaching philosophy. As a teacher I must meet my students as they come into my classroom and acknowledge the different places they are in and the different places they have come from. From that point I may learn how to engage them by getting to know them and where they came from. Once I learn who they are and what they need I may assist them academically while also helping them meet whatever other needs I can as their classroom teacher.