Renier Scheepers
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
My personal philosophy is that every teacher chooses a profession in education with a certain goal. I have a very simple reason for it. I have grown up in an ever changing and developing world and one of the only things that are constant is that knowledge is power. Education is something that, once acquired, cannot be taken away from someone. The transfer of knowledge is my goal to emancipate learners to become independent individuals. The main outcome of education is to teach learners necessary skills, knowledge, critical- and logical thoughts, in such a way that their development will prepare them to become a part of society. The way I want to transfer knowledge has to be unique and unforgettable at the same time. The teacher is a motivator and not a discouraging influence. I want to encourage full development inside and out of the classroom in the subject of teaching and in wisdom of life. The teacher’s role in the learning situation is, according to me, to be the centre between the subject matter and the student. It is thus the educator’s responsibility to ensure that the translation of the subject matter is done in such a way that the learners comprehend it fully. There are other levels at which the teacher can be a model of behaviour and also teach values and morals.
Extra mural activities make an opportunity for education to take place. Coaching sport is important to me, as this creates a new environment where learners will find themselves learning new ways of self-discipline and an understanding of the benefits of hard work in a team and as individuals. I strive for success and through that I will pass the guidelines for it over to the pupils.
To ensure and maintain the goals an educator has set in their personal teaching philosophy, the learning environment has to be ripe for development and growth. Each learner is seen as a unique person with their own individuality, talents, strengths and weaknesses and should thus be treated fairly in this sense. Acknowledgement should be given to learners where it is due, no matter how small the learner’s advancements are. Attention and motivation is a must. An understanding that everyone progresses at a different pace and so there must be given attention and honour to any form of growth. A positive attitude is easily transferred and adapted by children and learners in the classroom. To have an up-beat and excited view on everyday life and the work being done will enforce the learner’s attenti