Gateway to Horizon

Learning, in my point of view, is one of the most important and rewarding amongst social processes in which humans engage. Surely, education is considered important in all societies and teachers play an integral role in ensuring the success of this social process. There is so much a person can learn outside of formal school, but knowledge administered by universities is without a doubt instrumental to our race’s advanced and ever-progressive state. Interestingly, my studies in University of the Philippines as an aspiring educator effectively balance core curriculum and incidental learning. Specifically, a course in the teaching of reading and literature, simply EDR 110, equipped me both theoretically and practically.

Knowledge of learning theories is essential but its application is far more necessary. This course literally allowed us to practice teaching, likewise, immersed us to the tasks and responsibilities entailed for this vocation. The actual teaching experience we’ve had is something I can add to my portfolio. Moreover, these same experiences developed in me philosophies which I may embody as I continue my journey in becoming a licensed educator.

I find our study idealistic but realistic at the same time. Our classroom discussions opened my eyes to various views on the teaching of reading and literature. Group teaching activities, on the other hand, encouraged me to go out of my comfort zone and even stirred my innate creativity. Anchored with theoretical foundation and practical skills, I am now ready to go further and in time establish myself in the field of teaching as far as my talents permit.

When it comes to being a teacher, there is no single approach that is proven to work in all circumstance. There are, however, practices that can positively impact a child’s learning experience. I came with a list based from what I’ve learned throughout the semester. Though there is so much to say, I came up with only five points which to me are worth pondering.

1. Don’t lie to your students. Most kids have an amazing sense of radar that's capable of bringing out the truth, so never ever lie.

2. Encourage students to think critically. Provide access to information, but don’t act as if you’re the sole source of knowledge.

3. Befriend your students. Exert an effort so they may love you as their teacher.

4. Concentrate on your students’ successes, and by no means highlight their mistakes or failures.

5. Always have a reason why you’re doing what you’re doing.

Clearly, the sum of my learning experiences creates a synergy that will certainly be reflected through my character and the way I carry myself as an educator. This course led me to a pedagogy centering attention to collaborative learning, a refining strategy that will allow me to carefully nudge my students in reaching the fullness of their potentials. Finally, my overall EDR 110 experience challenged me to rid myself of passivity, to be reflective rather than reflexive, and developed in me an unyielding passion to continue learning and become better day after day.