My Learning Philosophy

Philosophies about learning and teaching are constantly changing alongside shifts in society and education. Both learning and teaching are ongoing, lifelong processes that evolve over time. It's crucial for learners to understand how and why they learn, for teachers to comprehend how and why they teach, and for both to collaborate in creating meaningful learning environments. Learning is like a vibrant painting; it can take various forms and blend different elements, resulting in a beautiful array of individuality. Bold and unique, color represents what education needs in its approach to learning and teaching.

In my role as a teacher, I believe my responsibility is to facilitate learning rather than forcing my students to learn. Learning is ultimately the responsibility of the learner. My job is to mentor and guide my students on their learning journey. I achieve this by setting examples, encouraging self-reflection, and providing constructive feedback. Deep learning occurs when knowledge is applied in various contexts.

I encourage my students' parents to bridge the gap between classroom learning and home life. I find it challenging when some students struggle to make sense of their learning because they lack support outside of school. Learning needs to have context not just within the school but also outside of it. While I cannot force students to learn, parents cannot compel their children either; however, all of us can create environments that nurture their learning by providing opportunities and support.

LEARNING THEORY

Understanding which learning theories I resonate with can guide my decision-making, especially when it comes to addressing the diverse needs of learners in the digital age (Bates, 2019). In terms of learning theories, I strongly align with constructivism. Key contributors to this theory Jean Piaget being the primary theorist. I favor constructivism because it emphasizes making sense of experiences and involves conversation and active participation. Tony Bates (2019) describes the constructivist approach as individuals working to organize their thoughts through various means, such as personal reflection, seeking new information, and testing ideas through social interaction with others. This theory closely relates to my goals as an educator because it emphasizes personal understanding and the social aspects of learning.

WHY USE COVA

In today's digital era, my role as a teacher involves integrating my learning and teaching philosophies to cater to my students' needs. Instead of simply imparting knowledge, I empower students to build their own understanding. While creating my Learning Manifesto and my WHY statement, I gained a whole new level of understanding while igniting my passion to create significant learning environments (CSLE) through blended learning which will give students choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning opportunities (COVA), and equip them for a 21st-century world. I believe that this will help me provide a more equitable learning environment for my students. My ePortfolio innovation plan reflects this approach, providing a platform for learning and reflection. My ideas about learning and the roles of educators and learners are woven into every part of my plan. I'm excited about creating meaningful learning environments for everyone I teach and committed to a lifelong journey of learning and growth.

References:
Annotated Bibliography

Bates, T. (2019, March 18). Learning theories and online learning. Online Learning and Distance Education Resources. Retrieved April 17, 2022, from https://www.tonybates.ca/2014/07/29/learning-theories-and-online-learning/

Tony Bates, an author with expertise in online learning and education, explores learning theories and their application in digital-age classrooms. Bates delves into behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism, offering insights into teaching practices in the digital age.

Harapnuik, D., Thibodeaux, T., Cummings, C. (2018). Choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning [eBook]. Creative Commons License. http://tilisathibodeaux.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/COVA_eBook_Jan_2018.pdf

COVA acknowledges that learners acquire knowledge by having the choice, taking ownership, and expressing their voice within genuine learning settings. Educators are prompted to design meaningful learning environments (CSLE) that align with the COVA framework to optimize student learning.

My Learning Philosophy

References: Annotated Bibliography

Bates, T. (2019, March 18). Learning theories and online learning. Online Learning and Distance Education Resources. Retrieved April 17, 2022, from https://www.tonybates.ca/2014/07/29/learning-theories-and-online-learning/

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​Tony Bates, an author with expertise in online learning and education, explores learning theories and their application in digital-age classrooms. Bates delves into behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism, offering insights into teaching practices in the digital age.

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Harapnuik, D., Thibodeaux, T., Cummings, C. (2018). Choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning [eBook]. Creative Commons License. http://tilisathibodeaux.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/COVA_eBook_Jan_2018.pdf

COVA acknowledges that learners acquire knowledge by having the choice, taking ownership, and expressing their voice within genuine learning settings. Educators are prompted to design meaningful learning environments (CSLE) that align with the COVA framework to optimize student learning.

References:
Annotated Bibliography

Tony Bates, an author with expertise in online learning and education, explores learning theories and their application in digital-age classrooms. Bates delves into behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism, offering insights into teaching practices in the digital age.