1. My philosophy
“Intelligence plus character that is the goal of true education”( Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr) As an ECE, I want to discuss about the two most important aspects in
children’s education: “intelligence “ and” character”.
I believe “A teacher is a compass that activates the magnets of curiosity,
knowledge, and wisdom in the pupils"( Ever Garrison).Teacher’s job is not only about
teaching knowledge, it is about encouraging students to think and learn by themselves.
Maria Montessori states,“The environment must be rich in motives which lend interest
to activity and invite the child to conduct his own experiences. Such experiences are
not just play. It is work he must do in order to grow up.” Children want to learn
because they are carious about the world. The prize and punishments cannot motivate
students to learn for long time. The most powerful motivation is student’s interest.
Therefore, teacher should assist children with an environment which will enable them
to explore freely.“Only through freedom and environmental experience is it
practically possible for human development to occur” (Maria Montessori). Teacher is
a facilitator and coordinator when working with children.
I believe "In early childhood you may lay the foundation of poverty or riches,
industry of idleness, good or evil, by the habits to which you train your children.
Teach them right habits then, and their future life is safe”(Lydia Sigourney).Teacher’s
influence is powerful and significant. If you want to teach children manner, you
should always be polite. If you want to teach children honesty, you should never lie to
them. Children learn by imitating teachers. Therefore, "As with all great teachers, his
curriculum was an insignificant part of what he communicated. From him you didn't
learn a subject, but a life...Tolerance and justice, fearlessness and pride, reverence and
pity, are learned in a course on long division if the teacher has those qualities"
(William Alexander Percy). The character of person is more important than the
intelligence. A more knowledgeable evil will do more damage to society.
Knowledge and good attribute are key factors of children’s success. I wish I can
contribute my knowledge and energy to it.
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reference:
http://www.dailymontessori.com/maria-montessori-quotes/
http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/7847-intelligence-plus-character-that-is-the-goal-of

2. -true-education