Introduction

__**// About Me... //**__ My name is Jessica Scott. I am a Senior at Bowie State University and my major is Early Childhood Education. I attended Winston Salem State University for my freshman year and then Salisbury University for my sophmore year. I was an Early Childhood Education major at those school's as well. I adore kids and love working with them. I truly believe this is my calling. __**// Educational Philosophy... //**__ Education plays a vital role and is an essential element to a successful and happy life. In addition to learning the basics like reading and writing, education provides us with knowledge of the world around us. Education is not only about the lessons you learn in textbooks, it is also about the lessons of life. Learning is an on-going process that occurs throughout one’s lifetime. Getting an education is important because it equips us with all that is needed to make our dreams and aspirations in life come true. It opens doors of brilliant career opportunities. My philosophy of education would be a combination of essentialism and progressivism. Essentialism strives to teach students the accumulated knowledge of our civilization through core courses in traditional academic disciplines. Progressivism organizes schools around the concerns, curiosity, and real-world experiences of students. It is a philosophy that will help students develop the kind of problem solving skills that will allow them to function successfully in a competitive society. I believe it is really important that students receive an education that will not only focus on curriculum, but also acquire skills and a knowledge base that will allow them to function at a superior level throughout their entire academic career. Essentialism and Progressivism are the complete opposite from each other, but combined would definitely make an effective teacher. Essentialism belongs to the teacher-centered philosophies, with the initiative in education resting with the teacher rather than the pupil, because the child needs the guidance and control of adults if he or she is to realize their full potential. Progressivism sides with the child-centered philosophies, with the teacher acting more as a guide or advisor rather than a figure of authority. To achieve this, students should be exposed to a diverse and interdisciplinary curriculum. All students do not learn in the same way or at the same pace. I believe that education is an individual, unique experience for every student who enters a classroom. As a future teacher, it is critical for me to incorporate multiple learning styles into my teachings. All children are entitled to the same education. I believe that all children have the ability to learn and the right to a quality education. Each child brings their own unique and individual characteristics into the classroom. Students may be from different cultures, speak a different language, have disabilities, or may sometimes have problems at home. No matter what the situation, each child deserves to feel welcomed and included in their class. Teachers should strive to create a classroom environment where each child will feel included. I intend to promote positive energy and inclusiveness, embracing differences and learning from them. Students with disabilities deserve the same chances as any other student. To provide the same opportunities for children with disabilities, teachers should take the time to learn about all of their students. By recognizing every student's potential and having separate, individual goals for each, a teacher can accommodate personal needs and abilities and encourage the pursuit of academic aspirations. Creating a welcoming environment where each student will feel included and equal, will increase their chances for success. As a future teacher, I will strive to provide a comforting, safe, organized, sensible environment that promotes success.