I align most with Existentialism, Progressivism, and Social Recontructionism. These are the student-based philosophies and I like how they each give students a certain amount of freedom. I think I will take parts from each of these three philosophies to create my own classroom environment where students can express themselves, understand themselves, and feel motivated to make a difference. I will have some structure in my classroom so I can ensure students are learning and staying on track, but I will incorporate different options for assignments and projects. I think group work is very important and teaches needed skills in society. I do not enjoy the Essentialism and Perennialism philosophies because they are more closed minded and to me, don't keep up with how our society functions today.

Student-Based

Comparison - My philosophy is similar to this because both are student based and aim to support students in life. This philosophy focuses on individuality and creativity. Existentialism is different from my personal philosophy because mine includes more guidance and structure while still allowing students to express themselves.

Strength - Individualized learning, critical thinking skills, supports creativity and guiding students in life

Weakness - Some argue this can end up being too much freedom for students and lack in core educational needs

Teacher-Based

Comparison - This philosophy is much different than my personal philosophy. It is teacher based and doesn't allow students to express themselves and learn about issues they may be interested in. My philosophy is more student based and creates a more open classroom environment.

Strength - Promotes life long learning, personal growth, and critical thinking skills

Weakness - Potential to not adequately address the needs and perspectives of diverse cultures and societies

Student-Based

Comparison - This philosophy is very similar to mine because both are student based and focus on guiding students to think outside the box and work with others. This philosophy also focuses on allowing students to think critically and learn with a variety of different people. They experience new things which can spark interests and motivate them.

Strength - Gives students real world experiences, experience working with others, lots of engagement, critical thinking skills, and adapts to students diverse needs

Weakness - Teachers must still focus on needed learning skills and materials because some argue this can create a lack of these skills, knowledge, and discipline

Teacher-Based

Comparison - This philosophy is very different form my personal philosophy. They focus a lot on the core subjects and believe that these are the only important things to be learned in school. Unlike this philosophy, mine focuses on other factors and isn't teacher based.

Strength - Provides students with a strong educational foundation for future learning success

Weakness- Can limit student creativity and since it focuses on traditional subjects it can limit students' exposure to diverse ideas and cultures

Student-Based

Comparison - My personal philosophy is similar to this one because both are student based and guide students to be the change they want to see in the world. Social Reconstructionism pushes students to think critically and problem solve. By doing this, classroom environments will feel safe and welcoming for all, and students learn to listen actively and hear others opinions.

Strength - Connects students to the real world giving them motivation and encouraging critical thinking skills

Weakness - Teachers must do this in a way that doesn't push beliefs or specific ideas onto students otherwise it can cause issues with families and schools

Classroom Organization - I would like to have small tables for students to sit. The whiteboard will be in the front of the classroom for all students to see and I will include some fun seating like wobble chairs, bouncy balls, and standing desks.

Teaching Style and Lesson Planning - I will have a daily schedule visible to students while also planning out my lessons at the start of each week to ensure I stay on track. I will use pieces from the student-based philosophies to teach my class.

Student Assessment and Evaluation - To ensure I assess and evaluate all students fairly I will walk around the classroom to each student to check on how they are doing during work times. I will also work with small groups when need be.

Motivation and Management/Disipline - I will have different fun sayings to gather back class attention when needed for example I can say, Hocus Pocus and the class responds with Everybody Focus. I will have students work together in teams to motivate them while working with classmates.

Classroom Climate - I want the environment to be very open and welcoming. I want there to be colors, but not too much to distract students, but also something I can enjoy looking at. I think using fun lighting is also beneficial when creating a comfortable classroom environment.

Leadership Style - I think as a leader it is important to be respectful and confident. As a teacher I will not think of myself as superior and will help students feel like they belong in the class. I will try to guide students in positive directions and help them be successful. Having an open mind is important to me and I think that will help my students feel more confident within my class as well.