CIS 610 - A#1 Philosophy of Teaching

Whether or not you are even aware of it, you currently have a certain philosophy of education. Since this philosophy will affect virtually everything you do as a teacher, it is especially important to be able to actually state your philosophy. Your philosophy, for example, will affect such things as:

1. How you present information in the classroom or lab. Do you try to identify various learning styles and teach using a variety of methods?

2. How you grade assignments and exams. Do you expect students to use the exact terminology that you used in class or is it okay to paraphrase?

3. Whether you accept late assignments. Is there a signle due date for all students or will you make exceptions?

4. How you deal with cheating.

5. How you motivate students. Do you believe that it is entirely your responsibility to motivate each student, so if they weren't motivated, it's your own fault?

6. How patient you are with students. Do you expect that anyone who has been accepted at UO should have some basic educational background so it isn't necessary to remediate for any student?

Write a statement (Use a word processor - up to one page, single-spaced) of your philosphy of teaching. Your philosophy will no doubt evolve throughout the term and you will have a chance later in the term to revise your written philosophy.

To your statement, add two lists:

1. A list of your own qualities/characteristics that will make you be a good teacher.

2. A list of qualities/characteristics that could probably use some improvement to be a more effective teacher.