One of the biggest lessons Iâve taken from my teaching journey is that learning isnât just about absorbing informationâitâs about understanding how our actions shape our experiences and the world around us. This principle has guided how I approach classroom management, student accountability, and the integration of real-world connections into my teaching.
In my practicums, I worked hard to help students recognize that their choicesâwhether in their schoolwork, relationships, or communitiesâcarry weight. I encouraged self-reflection through discussions, journaling, and peer feedback, pushing students to think about how their actions impacted themselves and those around them.
Beyond academics, I also focused on social and emotional learning. I integrated literature and storytelling as a way for students to explore moral dilemmas, cause-and-effect relationships, and different perspectives. When conflicts arose, I didnât just resolve them for studentsâI guided them in understanding the root of the issue and how their words or actions contributed to it. These conversations reinforced that actions have consequences, both positive and negative, and that taking responsibility is a key part of personal growth.
Another aspect of this principle that resonates with me is environmental responsibility. I incorporated outdoor learning experiences where students could see firsthand how human actions affect nature. Whether it was discussing sustainability during a science lesson or simply taking time to appreciate our surroundings, I wanted students to recognize that they play a role in caring for the land and resources they use.