 Karen Verkler Year Awarded: 2009 |
Teaching Philosophy
Life is no brief candle to me; it is a sort of splendid torch which I’ve got a hold of for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.
George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)
I have been an educator in several different disciplines. However, it is my opinion that content area instruction is of secondary importance. Of utmost importance is the establishment of a caring, positive learning environment in which the student is encouraged to believe in himself/herself and to demonstrate self-respect and respect for others. In addition, I adamantly espouse the view that learning can and should be fun.
To this end, I strive to create a positive, stress-free learning environment. One of my first activities each semester is an icebreaker that allows students and teacher to become familiar with everyone’s name, background, and personality. I encourage them to celebrate the unique individuals they are. I am a firm believer in being oneself and believing in oneself. An individual attempting to emulate someone possessing a teaching style and/or personality different from one’s own will not feel a “fit.” I show my students that teachers can expect high quality work and have fun at the same time. My expectations are high and I have been knighted “The Grammar Queen of the College of Education” by students. However, my high standards certainly do not preclude the presence of a sense of humor. I have a jovial, playful nature and laughter comes easily to me. I exude enthusiasm and a love for my profession, and encourage my students to celebrate life and have fun. Although they realize that the course content is of a very serious and important nature, they emulate my sense of humor. The resultant classroom environment is one of support, friendship, and concern for one another, the foundation upon which I base all of my teaching. |
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Teaching Excellence Awards
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