Basic Principles of Learning
It is my responsibility to create a classroom environment which allows your child to grow academically, creatively, socially, and emotionally. The philosophy of this classroom is to encourage students to become excited and self-directed in their own learning. The following principles are the guidelines to achieve these goals:
Ø Learning can be fun!
Ø Children are responsible for their own behavior and learning.
Ø The teacher’s role is that of a guide, facilitator, and role model – not simply as a purveyor of knowledge.
Ø Parents/guardians, school staff, and the classroom teacher are all partners in providing a supportive learning environment.
Ø Work is activity-based and student-centered. Students learn by doing, by manipulating materials, by experiencing, by questioning, by investigating, by gathering information, by drawing conclusions, by making decisions, and by being given individual responsibilities.
Ø Students learn in many different ways, with different styles, and by using different strategies.
Ø Students should be encouraged to construct their own meaning and knowledge; learning is enhanced when it has personal meaning.
Ø Students learn from their mistakes. It is important to take risks and to explore new ideas and experiences.
Ø Basic skills are important for all students. Each should have the opportunity to develop these skills in meaningful ways.
Ø Students should learn to work independently and become engaged in their own level of interest and ability.
Ø Students learn from each other. They should practice how to collaborate, cooperate, and work effectively as partners or within teams.
Ø The curriculum should be integrated as much as possible, combining several disciplines around central themes.
Ø Thoughtful self-reflection and self-assessment are the keys to ongoing learning and progress. Setting realistic goals for achievement and growth is important.