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The Teaching Philosophy: What It Is and Why You Need to Update It

Angela

Teaching is more than a job. It’s a calling for many. As college professors, you play a pivotal role in shaping your students’ future. Your teaching philosophy is the blueprint that guides your educational journey, impacting not only the lives of your students but also your career progression. Learn why updating your teaching philosophy is essential and why it boosts your job prospects and helps you connect with students.

What Is a Teaching Philosophy?

A teaching philosophy is a personal statement that reflects your beliefs, values, and approach to teaching. It’s a declaration of your teaching principles and a roadmap for achieving your educational goals. This document helps you articulate your teaching style, goals, and strategies and provides a framework for evaluating and refining your instructional methods.

Why Is It Important to Students?

Your teaching philosophy clarifies what your students can expect in your classroom. It sets expectations for the learning environment, which can help them align their goals and efforts with your teaching approach.

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A well-defined teaching philosophy can inspire and motivate students by showing them the purpose and value of their education. When they understand why they’re learning, they are likelier to be engaged and passionate about the subject matter.

Your teaching philosophy helps maintain consistency in your teaching approach, which students appreciate. It also holds you accountable to your stated goals, fostering an environment of trust and fairness.

Why Is It Important to Your CV and Landing the Next Job?

A well-crafted teaching philosophy can set you apart from other candidates. It demonstrates your commitment to effective teaching, a highly sought-after quality by academic institutions. Vice President of Academic and Professor Services Dorothy Miraglia, Ph.D., has advice for updating your teaching philosophy. “I always encourage clients to think outside the box with their teaching philosophy and showcase a unique attribute or quality that makes a candidate stand out. The teaching philosophy is your first impression on recruiters, so make them want to keep reading.”

Read more: The 8 Biggest Job Search Mistakes

Updating your teaching philosophy shows potential employers that you are committed to ongoing professional development and are open to adapting your teaching methods to best serve your students.

Many academic institutions prioritize teaching as a core component of their mission. A strong teaching philosophy aligns with these values, making you an attractive candidate for those institutions.

Steps to Updating Your Teaching Philosophy

  1. Self-Reflection: Reflect on your current teaching practices and values. What works well, and what needs improvement? Consider your goals and expectations for your students.
  2. Review and Research: Explore current trends, teaching methodologies, and relevant keywords for your field. This can help you incorporate new ideas into your teaching philosophy and improve your chances of being found by automated screeners and recruiters on social media.
  3. Define Your Goals: Clearly state your teaching goals. What do you want your students to achieve? How will you help them reach those goals?
  4. Articulate Your Methods: Describe the specific strategies and techniques you employ to achieve your teaching goals. This could include active learning, technology integration, or fostering a supportive classroom environment.
  5. Reflect on Feedback: Incorporate feedback from students, colleagues, and mentors. This provides an external perspective that can help you refine your philosophy.
  6. Communicate Your Values: Share your core values as an educator. What principles guide your teaching decisions and actions? How do these values impact your students?

Updating your teaching philosophy is not just a professional necessity for your CV; it’s a commitment to your student’s success and your own career advancement. By crafting a teaching philosophy that reflects your evolving beliefs and practices, you can enrich your students’ learning experiences and position yourself as a highly valued educator in your field. Remember, the journey of self-improvement as a professor is lifelong, and your teaching philosophy is the compass that keeps you on the right path.

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Angela

Angela Britcher is a writer, communications professor, and instructional designer. She works with The Babb Group and Edusity.
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