An Analogy
I sometimes like to compare teaching to leading an orchestra. The conductor may not know how to play every instrument- that's the domain of each individual musician. But the conductor needs to lead the group and help them get the most out of the music that they share. Similarly, as instructors, we need to bring together our students and draw on their strengths so that they learn the essential content and understandings, explore the nuances around issues and choices, and come together to produce an experience that is meaningful and memorable.
My Credo for Teaching and Learning
In 2011, while I was taking courses towards my doctorate, I set down my "credo" on teaching and learning. A credo is a set of belief statements that declare your values; it is a document to live by. While the document was written with an eye to teaching k-12 and providing instructional leadership at the university through teacher education courses and practicum supervision, I still hold to principles I declared almost ten years ago. I've tweaked the document a little to reflect my current role as a faculty developer and instructional coach. Click on the button below to read this credo.
Links to relevant blog entries
Since March of 2020 I have been writing weekly reflections on education and teaching at the college level. Some of these Monday Morning Musings reinforce or further explain my philosophy for teaching and learning. Click on the buttons below to go directly to the relevant post.