PhilosophyYoung people like me as a teacher because they know I deeply care about them. The stories I tell students are not only intended to entertain, but they serve as a springboard to teach them about the transforming power of higher principles—such as integrity, humility, perseverance, and excellence. I believe one's character changes for the better when these principles are fully lived out. Personal success and happiness are achieved.
Where Does Education Begin? I believe heart and mind go hand in hand. To create an effective learning environment, the teacher needs to begin by addressing issues of "the heart" (personal identity, life's meaning, establishing good relationships, etc.). From there, it should be shown how the information relates to them personally. The theory is students will be motivated to learn when they believe "it has something to do with me." This perspective also requires the teacher to be a welcoming presence who generously gives students space to be who they are. A revered teacher, whom students look up to... ...RESPECTS each individual ...Shows genuine INTEREST in them ...UNDERSTANDS them by listening ...INSPIRES them to succeed What is Success? Success has two components—objective and subjective. Objective success is the ability to learn independently, maintain effective human relationships, and earn a living wage. Subjective success stems from objective success. It is being able to experience the lasting joy and deep contentment when one conforms to reality. (That’s because there is “something more” behind what we ordinarily perceive as reality.) Dr. William Glasser provides a three-fold framework. It consists of Reality Therapy, Choice Theory, and Quality World. Reality Therapy
|
Choice Theory You can’t “make” young people do anything. The teacher can only give them information and influence them to make the right decisions. Choices originate from within and are deeply personal. People are driven by a longing to experience values. Quality World Each student learns best when content is personalized, framed according to his or her Quality World. A Quality World is one's own "picture book" of meaningful past experiences. It represents those things we hold dear and give us joy. Great literature and other art forms can contribute and add value to one's Quality World. Other influential writers: Stephen R. Covey (7 Habits of Highly Effective People); Parker Palmer (To Know As We Are Known: Education as a Spiritual Journey) Go to Next Page Go to Top |