Understanding Yourself as an Educator
Great teaching begins with self-awareness. Understanding your values, motivations, and instructional style is foundational to building authentic relationships with learners and creating intentional, inclusive learning environments. This section is designed to help you reflect on who you are as an educator, why you teach, and how your approach shapes the learning experience.
Through guided reflection, practical frameworks, and tools for professional development, you'll explore what drives your teaching and how to communicate that effectively in both your classroom and your career materials. Whether you're crafting your first teaching statement or revisiting your philosophy after years of experience, this process offers valuable insights into your growth and evolving identity as an instructor.
Explore the topics below:
- Teaching Philosophy
Reflect on your core beliefs about teaching and learning, and begin crafting a statement that articulates your educational values and approach. - Five Teaching Styles: Perspectives on Teaching (Pratt)
Learn about Pratt’s five evidence-based perspectives on teaching, and explore how they shape your own teaching style and classroom decisions. - Preparing Your Professional Teaching Statement
Discover how to write a compelling, purpose-driven teaching statement that communicates your strengths and priorities to hiring committees or during annual reviews. - Becoming a Critically Reflective Facilitator
Engage in continuous improvement through reflective practice, learner feedback, and intentional adjustments that support student success.
By understanding yourself as an educator, you’ll not only strengthen your teaching practice—you’ll also build a clearer sense of purpose and confidence in your role as a facilitator of learning.