Introduction
Hello! Welcome to my ePortfolio. My name is Anika Walker and I am currently finishing up my second year at the University of Victoria in the Elementary Education program. Since I was young, I knew I had a passion for teaching. At an early age, I loved to share my understanding of knowledge with others, and loved to explain concepts and strategies to my peers. During my intermediate age, I began coaching junior field hockey teams and loved to put together fun drills and teach skills to younger children. It is so inspiring to watch young people grow and master new tasks as a result of one’s hard work and dedication. During my final year of high school, I was fortunate enough to secure a position as a PE teaching assistant for a grade 9 class. In this role, I developed extensive skills to contribute to my teaching toolbox, and became very familiar with taking attendance, setting up lessons, and running drills and tasks. I also was immersed with student diversity and understanding that all students learn in different ways and progress at different speeds. Through these positions, I decided to pursue my passion for teaching.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy revolves around being a role model for everyone around me, and not just the students in my class. When teaching, I believe that students pick up on behaviours, beliefs, and react in similar ways to those of their instructor. Because of this, it is important to set a proper example and work alongside students to help them find themselves, develop, and grow as unique individuals. It is our job as educators to teach our students how to use critical and creative thinking skills, be able to self-regulate and manage their emotions, as well as allow them to thrive and be the best versions of themselves. I have a firm belief that all educators should be motivating through even the toughest of times, create engaging and energetic lessons, as well as accept all students and be willing to work alongside them despite their appearances, disabilities, or beliefs.
Personally, teaching is a gift that everyone should be able to experience. All students should be given the opportunity to learn and receive the same opportunities to follow their passions and do what they want to do. Without educators, this goal is not possible. Without educators, students will not further their academic development, there will be unequal opportunities in society, and the future of our civilization will be at risk due to uneducated youth. Educators have the ability to make a difference to the lives of young individuals, whether they view school as an escape from a rough home life, a chance for themselves to shine at school, or a social scene for them feel comfortable, schools and educators are critical roles that are constantly present during the physical and mental developmental stages in the lives of children everywhere.
What is the Goal of Education?
Schools are designed to create students who will become responsible and socially-equipped citizens. Through core classes such as English, Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies students are expected to learn about the world around them and the beings which occupy the society we live in. As educators, it is our responsibility to ensure that the needs of all students are met to equip them to meet these standards of society.
Anika Walker 