Why do we write them?
Teachers are often asked for their teaching philosophies as part of completing their education or applying for new jobs. A philosophy of teaching explains your reasons for teaching, a description of how you teach, and justifications for your beliefs about teaching. Your teaching philosophy will likely evolve as you gain experience in teaching and place yourself in new and different situations.
What to do before you start writing.
Brainstorming techniques.
Ask yourself a few questions about your own teaching. In your mind, what makes a good teacher? What qualities should a good teacher have? What is the role of a teacher? The role of a student? What adjectives describe your teaching style? Sit down with a piece of paper and let yourself freewrite on these and other similar topics.
Talk to your peers and your instructors if you're still in school. Ask someone to read over what you've scribbled down and make suggestions.
Think about elements of teaching and learning that are specific to your area. For example, an ESL teacher might comment on methods and ways of language learning. Your thoughts are how a student learns and acquires language would be essential to expressing your own philosophy of teaching.
Other Resources for Writing Your Philosophy of Teaching
Examples and help in getting started!
- Writing Your Philosophy of Teaching
- This article gives a basic overview of why we write teaching philosophies and how to get started on brainstorming your own.
- What's Your Philosophy of Teaching and Does it Matter?
- Are teaching philosophies as important as we think? Academics and job candidates argue their opinions on the necessity of a teaching philosophy for new hires.
- How to Write a Statement of Teaching Philosophy
- Tips for writing a concise and clear statement of your teaching philosophy.
- FAQ on Teaching Philosophy Statements
- Commonly asked questions about writing a teaching philosophy.
Teaching Philosophy Books
The Tao of Teaching: The Ageless Wisdom of Taoism and the Art of Teaching
Amazon Price: $11.70 (as of 12/01/2008) 
Sample Teaching Philosophies
- Sample Teaching Philosophy
- A very basic teaching philosophy sample.
- Teaching Philosophy Samples
- This site has samples for various teaching fields like history, speech communication and biochemistry.
- Center for Teaching and Learning , University of Pennsylvania
- Read four award-winning examples of teaching philosophy.
- Philosophy Statement Samples
- A lengthy list of teaching philosophy samples from various disciplines.
Questions and Comments
What was it like when you wrote your philosophy of teaching? What was the hardest part? The easiest part? Share your thoughts here.
Evelyn_Saenz wrote...
Fancy Nancy loves inspired Teachers that are as creative as you. I can hardly wait to read the rest of your lenses.
Posted April 17, 2008
