Philosophy of Education

I was told in my earlier years that a teacher is one who imparts knowledge. If that
definition is accurate, then all of us human beings qualify as teachers. In fact, we
all impart knowledge at one point or another in our lives. However, a professional
teacher is one who is trained and assigned the job to impart knowledge in exchange
for an income (my definition). I believe anyone who has chosen the profession to
teach has an outstanding responsibility, regardless of the age group chosen to
teach. There are indeed certain characteristics of a teacher which make them stand
out from any other profession.

A teacher has to have good character. It does not matter what subject or what age
group is being taught. The teacher has to be exemplary in every way. I remember
when I had orientation for my last teaching assignment. One of the instructors
informed us that we are teachers 24/7. Meaning that our character never takes a
vacation. We are always required to be a good example, because we never know
who is watching and noticing everything we say and do outside the classroom.
Those words are so true. I have had various people greet me from time to time.
They said I used to teach them, but I do not recall. I just have to be careful that I do
not say or do anything that is out of character at any time to lead any child astray.

In connection with good character, a teacher has to have good manners. The
attitude do as I say and not as I do does not work well for teachers. The words have
to match the actions or teaching is in vain. The students will not hear a word, or
learn a thing if there is conflict with actions and words. In any case, students
respond favorably to kindness and courtesy. They are likely to pattern that
behavior if they see it in operation. It is therefore wise to always show good
manners.

One of the most important qualities of a teacher is to ensure accuracy. One of the
worst things a teacher could ever do is to pass on information that is erroneous. We
really cannot unteach (yes, I know it is not a word) what we have taught. It is
therefore important for teachers to indulge in extensive and intensive research prior
to writing a plan and choosing the content. This part of the preparation for the
lesson can become the most tedious part of teaching. However, if the teacher
attempts to get the information for personal reasons as it can be enjoyable.
 A teacher is a leader in many ways. He or she has to set the example in preparing
for the lesson thoroughly before attempting to impart knowledge. Students can
know how much preparation is done prior to the lesson. They are not easily fooled.
If the lesson is thoroughly prepared it is easier to get their participation.

Patience is a virtue it has been said repeatedly. Patience is also one of the
requirements to teach. Every student does not have the same capability. It is very
easy to get frustrated with the students with the students who are not focused and
those who constantly distract the lesson. In addition, it is important to take the time
to help those who are struggling to understand a particular aspect of the lesson. A
good teacher will not neglect the slower students in the classroom, but would
rather find creative ways to help them understand the content. If anyone who is
seeking to teach does not have patience they are being advised to choose another
profession.

A teacher has to be one who is trustworthy. The students, parents and the
institution have entrusted teachers impart knowledge. It is the teacher’s
responsibility to teach with sincerity and integrity. Every effort should be made by
the teacher to ensure that the trust is not compromised in anyway. This is
extremely important especially in these days where students need to be protected
from people whose intention is to rub them of their innocence.