Week 10 Assignment #2: Teaching Philosophy Focused on Technology

As a biology teacher, I want to help my students become empowered learners. In a world that is so immersed in technology today, it is important to rethink the traditional ways of teaching. Since there are countless ways to utilize technology in the classroom, each and every student can benefit from it’s use, even though they may have their own way of learning and making sense of information that works best for them. The diversity of technology allows there to be multiple entry point into learning the material. I believe it is my responsibility to teach students how to interact with each other so that they learn to respect each other despite their differences. By creating an environment where there is mutual respect and understanding, I hope to foster a classroom where students fell comfortable to participate and express themselves. These same principles hold true for students who become digital citizens. There are certain rights and responsibilities that come along with participating in the digital world, and I will ensure that my students engage in behavior that is positive, safe, legal, and ethical. Students will be made aware of the permanence of their actions in the digital world so they can properly manage their digital identity.

I think it is extremely important to engage students with technology so they can take an active role in the learning process, leading to a student-centered classroom. Technology is exceedingly advantageous in employing effective research strategies. There is a plethora of resources that students can access through the use of technology, and I will encourage my students to take advantage of them for their intellectual pursuits. Not only can technology aid students in the learning process, but I also believe it is an effective way for students to present the knowledge they have gained. Students will be encouraged to express themselves innovatively with the use of different digital media. This allows students to break down complex ideas into things they can communicate clearly and explain, whether they are using visualizations, models, images, or any other digital tool.

Technology is also a noteworthy way to facilitate collaboration both inside and outside the classroom. Collaboration is a motivation factor that helps to engage students in learning. This social interaction aspect contributes to effective learning. This collaboration can extend past just their peers and reach a global community, which is an exciting way to use digital tools to connect with other learners. Not only are students collaborating when they use technology, but I will also be able to give them choices when it comes to their learning, which is also a highly motivating factor. This empowers students because they get to take part in directing their own learning. Students will have the ability to explore and ask questions using technology and then be able to research ideas and find answers to their questions or investigate solutions to problems they want to solve.

As an educator, I aim to empower students through the use of technology and to constantly be striving to improve teaching and learning. I will always promote the idea of students being responsible digital citizens so they can take full advantage of everything technology has to offer. This is something I will model for students by being a responsible digital citizen myself. Being able to create authentic learning experiences through the use of technology that I will be able to adapt for all learners is something I greatly look forward to.