Learning to Teach and Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy has evolved significantly over time, even though my journey as an educator is still in its early stages. One of the first lessons I learned was the importance of continuous dialogue in the classroom. Early on, I realized that if I stopped talking, students wouldn’t naturally fill the silence, leading to an awkward and unproductive environment. This was a tough lesson, but it taught me that, no matter how awkward the situation, it's better to keep the conversation going. This approach not only keeps the class moving but also makes me more approachable to my students.

My father, who has been a Taekwondo master and instructor for over 20 years, offered me some invaluable advice that has shaped my teaching style. Although we teach different subjects, he emphasized that the core principles of teaching remain the same. One piece of advice that really stuck with me was his approach to managing class time. He taught me to end the class at a point where students are fully engaged and excited about the next activity. This strategy keeps them looking forward to the next session, ensuring they return with enthusiasm.

As I continued teaching, I noticed that I became more invested in my students and their progress. My lesson plans grew more detailed and thoughtful as I learned to tailor my teaching methods to the unique needs of each class. My father had predicted this, and his experience gave me the confidence to trust in the process.

Initially, I was quite nervous and shy, unsure of how to command a classroom. However, as I gained more experience, I found that teaching has allowed me to grow significantly, both as an educator and as a person. It’s been a journey of continuous learning, and each class has brought new insights that have helped shape my evolving philosophy.