My goal as a teacher will be to infuse in my students an excitement and enthusiasm for learning that will last them their whole life. I want them to think of learning as and adventure, something to look forward to everyday. Iwant them to know that learning should not be confined to the classroom. Every experience of every day is an opportunity to learn. As Andy Baumgartner says, Parkay (2001), "To teach is to impact directly the entire course of human destiny. It is an awesome responsibility, an incredible challenge, and a limitless opportunity for satisfaction and reward" (p. 1). I look forward to experience the awesomeness of teaching.
A lot of issues and topics that I had not thought about were brought to my attention in the readings from the texts and in our discussions. I will discuss a few of the topics from the texts that have made me think about how I will teach when I complete this program.
How will I teach.
In order to be a successful teacher, I have to know myself. As noted by Parkay (2001), ".a teacher's self-understanding and self-acceptance are prerequisites for helping students to know and accept themselves" (p.41). I have already begun the process of self-understanding and self-acceptance through my participation in the REACH to TEACH program. The process of applying to the program caused me to assess and analyze myself. This is something that will continue to take place throughout the program. I will continuously reflect upon each learning experience and how it affects me. As I move into my student teaching, this will be enforced through my journal writing and portfolio activities. I plan to continue keeping a teaching journal so that I will always know where I stand on teaching and how effective I am.
Teaching is about expanding a child's mind so that he/she can be a positive and productive member of our society. As a mother, I want to give every child the educational experience that I want my child to have.