Stephanie Jancek jancekst@msu.

edu 231-670-2325
Miss Janceks Teaching Philosophy I believe that all students have a different way in which they learn material. I feel it is important that all of my students needs are met by using a variety of teaching styles to accommodate my students needs. It is of importance to understand that no two students are the same; I believe in representing these differences throughout my classroom. Not only in differentiating my lesson plans, but also through using various teaching techniques. In my classroom you will see that I use PowerPoints or other visual aids for my visual learners, and I incorporate technology into my lesson plans to make them more authentic to my students lives. I use my energetic personality to engage my students in learning, and I also allow my students to partake in whole group, small group, and one on one instruction. I want to ensure that all of my students are able to receive the individualized attention which is necessary for them to reach their potential. I want my students to know that I believe in them, and I care about their education. One way I do this by exchanging messages back and forth with them through reaction journals. I strongly believe that students need to learn how to express themselves and be creative; by using these journals I am allowing my students to develop these skills. I also allow my students to use manipulatives to help them better understand concepts; thus providing better instruction for my tactical learners. I am an avid believer in allowing my students to discuss problems or topics with one another or as a whole class, so they are able to develop not only surface knowledge, but a deep and meaningful comprehension of the material being presented to them. As a teacher it is my duty to teach my students and I take this duty seriously. I will challenge those students who need to be challenged, while I will work hard to catch students up who are behind, and I will ensure that all of my students are learning at their appropriate level. By holding my students to these high expectations, they will know I believe in them and will work with them to ensure they are successful in their academic and future careers. I realize that students are not made from a cookie cutter, so their education should not reflect that. Effective teaching takes place when the learners needs are met and I strive to be the most effective teacher I can possibly be. I work hard to continue my education and share this with my students so I set the example that no one is ever done learning. I will continue to be a lifelong learner to guarantee that my students are receiving the best education. I always learn about my students background and community so I am able to present the material to my students in a manner in which will make the most sense to them. I will relate the material to my students, so it becomes authentic to their lives; allowing them to see the importance of education all on their own. I also learn about my students lives so I am able to understand where they are coming from, what their lives are like outside of school, what they are interested in, and to show them that I am not someone who simply comes to school to teach the material. But rather I come to school to teach specifically to each and every one of my students. By making these personal connections with my students, I am able to become a much more effective teacher and allow my students to become more effective learners. I feel you do not have the students mind until you have their heart. This is my commitment to education; I will strive to be the best teacher I can possibly be, while at the same time I will push my students to become the best learners they possibly can be.