Concord University Department of Education :: Colleges Education Teaching Essays

Concord University Department of Education Philosophy Statement Forest Witcraft once said, "One hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the size of my house, or what kind of car I drove. But the world may be a little better, because I was important in the life of a child." Teachers are not just educators; they are parents, social workers, nurses, and even friends. I believe that a good teacher can play all of those roles and more at the same time, without wavering. Children are not only our future, but they are our present. Without children, there is no hope, no love, or no potential. If our children cannot look to us, educators, as role models, who will they look too? I feel that the only way to become a good role model is to be an effective teacher. By using an open mind and an open heart, I plan to touch the life of a child in a positive, educational manner. For if one life can be forever changed, so will mine. The definition of education is â€Å"the action or process of educating or of being educated, knowledge and development resulting from an educational process† (Webster Online Dictionary, 2004). We are not just talking about teaching, we are talking about effective teaching; Bringing a child from dark to light when it comes to learning. But how do we teach effectively? I believe motivation is the best key. If you cannot motivate your student’s to their best, then you’re not being an effective teacher. For this motive, teachers should make the learning process fun. If learning is fun and entertaining, students learn and don’t even realize it. Also, to be an effective teacher we must have high standards and high expectations. High standards and expectations make the students expand their minds and they are forced to excel in their work. But can you force students to excel? Yes, with the proper incentive. This then brings us back to motivation. As teacher, we should not strive to be good, but strive to be the best. For if we as instructors reach for the best, so will our students. Our attitudes are greatly reflected onto our children. I remember so many times having teachers who were just at school for the pay check and how it greatly showed in their work. I also remember teachers who were genuinely excited about teaching.