Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Why people choose to teach

    There is a big question people should ask theselves before they choose to become a teacher. They should ask themselves "Why do I want to teach?" Below are different reasons people have for becoming a teacher.


    There are many reasons people have for becoming a teacher. many of the reasons have to do with helping the students become successful adults in some way or another. Other reasons are much more personal. I have done quite a bit of research and there seems to be a common reason between many of the teachers. A teacher named Welborn, from Amherst mass., states her main reasons for becoming a teacher are because it gives her a purpose, she can make a difference in the lives of her students, and to be able to give quality education to all students. A second teacher from Phoenix Arizona teaches because he likes to watch children grow and ":find their depth." He believes he gives them the opportunity to create power and purpose within themselves. I really like this view because it is true. A good teacher empowers a student and makes them believe if they give it their all, they can do anything they put their mind to. A teacher is to support their students and give them the knowledge and tools needed to achieve this.

     "Youth is where character, questions, and desires are born." (Gordon, Boston ma.) This quote was inspirational to me because it is so true. Childrens minds are like blank slates, and the teacher helps them shape and learn who they truly are. Through schooling children learn who they want to be, what they want to do with their lives, and how they view the world/society. If a teacher doesn't care much about their job they may damage children's views on these topics. They may cause the student to feel like they are "dumb" or like they can not achieve their dreams. If a student is not praised for their good work and ideas, then they may start to feel like they are wrong or may feel intimidated and not live up to their full potential. Another good point made are that teachers are supposed to empower their students and teach them not to succumb to the cultures lowest expectations. This is especially important in schools with more diversity.
(www.whyweteach.com and http://www.helium.com/items/633186-teachers-why-do-we-want-to-teach)

    

Sunday, September 19, 2010

First Post 2010

Hello :)
     My name is Nicole and I am a Junior in college. I am, as of right now, a psychology major, but I am changing to Education with a minor in Psych. I have always been interested in teaching since I was a little kid. I also love animals. I have 2 cats, a golden retriever, and a dwarf hamster right now. My golden is a puppy and is quite the hand full! He has more energy than a toddler and constantly has us running around, but its all in good fun and overall he is an awesome pet.
my puppy champ
     There are many reasons why I want to teach, but the main reason is having the satisfaction of knowing I have been able to help children grow and learn in a way that is fun and interesting to them. Children all learn in different ways and have different needs, and it is my goal to gain the knowledge needed in life to be able to find a happy medium and hopefully change some children's views on school. I want them to know that they can be comfortable and that they have a say, but it is always important that they know you are the teacher, or you will not gain any respect.