Educational Technology Philosophy Statement

By Sara Dalton

As a former fifth and sixth grade teacher working on a Masters of Education Technology and
Library Science, my educational philosophy has evolved over the years. My philosophy contains
a set of beliefs and is based on the accumulation of years in the classroom as both a teacher and
as a student.
I believe the primary goal of an educator is to guide the students to become problem solvers and
original thinkers. By establishing trust and building relationships, I will create an environment
that fosters an attitude of perseverance and risk taking.
I believe the teacher is the guide on the side and not the keeper of all information. I present
information but allow the students to experiment and interpret new information through
discussion with fellow students and feedback from the teacher. I promote a desire to learn,
model correct methods, and engage students through active discovery lessons.
I believe in practicing the constructivist theory and allowing students to create knowledge
through experimentation and real-world situations by building upon students prior knowledge. I
facilitate cooperative learning that allows students to share ideas with respect and without fear of
failure.
I believe students learn by doing not by absorbing information. Learning takes place both
formally and informally within the classroom. Formal lessons and activities are completed but
informal discussions concerning the content through whole class blogs and small group
discussions allow the students understanding of a concept to evolve. Students construct new
knowledge through interactions and build on prior knowledge.
I believe when pedagogy and content are mastered, technology can be integrated. Technology is
not a tool used only for presenting information or for drill and practice. Technology is a means
of aiding students in constructing new knowledge.
I believe technology is a platform for students to show growth and proof of learning through the
construction of blogs, websites, power points, and other multi-media resources. Students will
generate new ideas, create original works, and use simulations to explore complex ideas and to
communicate understanding.
I believe my understanding of content, pedagogy, and technology must be intertwined to work
seamlessly together. Students in my classroom do not simply learn to use technology but learn
the content while learning the technology through group interactions during projects and
assignments.