Introduction
I have started this blog as a requirement for a Theory and Pedagogy of English Instruction class, part of my M.Ed. program in English Education. I am excited about the potential outcomes of weblogging, and I hope that this will become a platform for reflection on learning about teaching, particularly about English instruction, as well as an opportunity for the development of a professional learning community. I expect this blog to be a place for the initiation of thoughtful, professional discourse in areas which might include (but are not limited to) the following:
- literacy
- writing
- literature studies
- professional issues in education
- education philosophy
My teaching philosophy is still in the formative stage. Actually, I believe it will always be in a formative stage, so I suppose I should say that it is currently under development. I look forward to many great insights from responders that will help me to make sense of it all.
on September 6th, 2006 at 11:13 am
I look forward to developing a teaching philosophy alongside you, Jim!
on September 13th, 2006 at 7:48 pm
I make no claim to having any great insights, but I look foward to reading your blog.
We all have a lot to learn and a lot we can share.
on September 20th, 2006 at 9:44 pm
Jim,
Like you, I was not introduced to literary theory until I had already begun my college career. I love the idea of viewing differerent literary theories such Marxism, Feminsim, and Reader Response as different “lenses” through which to view both texts and the world. I think the comparison between literary theory and lenses offers both teachers and students a very visual way to think about complicated theories. I am also in agreement with you about the fact that literary theories must be approached carefully in a secondary classroom so as not to overwhelm students; however, I do believe as well that the insight students can gain from considering such different perspectives makes the teaching of literary theory well worth it.
on September 22nd, 2006 at 12:45 pm
Jim,
I am a student at LSU in Shreveport and I am writing a paper on why you should study literature in schools. I will take any words of wisdom that you minght add, or if you have references for me to look up, please refer them.
So,
Why study literature in schools??? What do the students get out of it?? What is the ultimate reasoning behind it?
Thanks rc
on September 23rd, 2006 at 8:16 pm
postpost test test test.
on October 4th, 2006 at 11:33 am
Your comment, “My teaching philosophy is still in the formative stage. Actually, I believe it will always be in a formative stage” really stood out to me as a foundational principle in education. I think many teachers forget that they are students as well. Teachers learn from other teachers, administrators and even their students. It would be a sad loss to have a teacher who no longer feels the need to learn. When we as teachers approach our positions with this attitude of continual learning I think our classroom experience will turn into a blossoming brood of possibilities. Our students will feel like they are revered as the sole center of the classroom and we will see results from our students work and ideas that we ourselves never thought of. It’s important to continue to ‘always’ learn as teachers.