Some Reflection Cues
for Writing a Philosophy of Teaching
A philosophy of teaching should be a personal document and take
its form, at least in part, from your own personal style. Not all
statements of philosophy will address all of the points raised below,
but these cues might spark some ideas.
- Why do I teach the way I do?
- Why am I a teacher?
- What motivated me to select a career path that includes
teaching?
- What is my personal definition of a great teacher and what
experience formed that definition?
- What do I believe about teaching and learning?
- What do I want my students to gain from my classroom?
- Why do I choose the teaching strategies/methods that I
use?
- Why do I select particular assignments/experiences for my
students?
- What metaphors for teaching and learning appeal to me?
Why?
Adapted from material from Texas A&M University Center for
Teaching Excellence.
