Crafting A Teaching Philosophy Statement

Welcome

This workshop will explore four components of a teaching philosophy statement. Each component will include an opportunity to respond to specific prompts. In a well-constructed teaching philosophy statement, there should be consistency in what a person says they believe, the teaching strategies they use to enact those beliefs, how they measure the impact of their teaching, and teaching-related goals they set for themselves. Misalignment amongst the components may not only be confusing and detrimental to your audience, but may also be a source of concern for those who review your teaching philosophy statement.

At its core, a teaching philosophy statement is a very personal document. It’s normal to feel a bit vulnerable or worried about what people will think about your statement. Since teaching philosophy statements are so personal, we don’t recommend looking at other people’s statements while you’re in the process of writing your own as it’s very easy to start writing in someone else’s style and voice instead of your own. By completing the process on your own first, it will allow for your own personal style and ideas to shine through, making a more authentic, stronger statement.

Writing a teaching philosophy statement is an iterative process. It is a living document that should be updated as you grow and mature as an instructor. As you develop, so too will your beliefs about, and approach towards, teaching.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this workshop you should be able to:

• Recognize some possible uses for a teaching philosophy statement; and
• Reflect on your teaching and learning beliefs, strategies, impacts, and goals.