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New Mexico State University

Teaching Philosophies

A good teaching philosophy has a single focus or organizing theme and is clear, organized and persuasive. It explains the teaching goals that are common to all your classes and demonstrates how the pedagogy and assessments you use support those goals. It addresses self-improvement strategies, i.e., “what's next?” for you as a teacher.

A memorable teaching philosophy communicates your passion for teaching and paints a picture of your classroom. It is a living document that helps you define yourself as a teacher and provides a touchstone to guide you in making decisions about teaching and learning.

“Good teaching comes from the identity and integrity of the teacher.” • Parker Palmer, The Courage to Teach

Teaching Philosophy Examples