A well-crafted teaching statement should provide a comprehensive picture of your teaching philosophy and practices, offering readers a deeper understanding of what you bring to the classroom. It should also help you clarify and articulate your own pedagogical beliefs and motivations. Remember to adapt your teaching statement to the specific institution and position you are applying for to demonstrate your alignment with their educational goals and values. The length of a teaching statement is typically between 1-2 pages.
Your teaching statement should cover
| Beliefs and Values | Pedagogical Approach |
| Goals for Students | Theory and Practice Connection |
| Inclusivity | Assessment and Evaluation |
| Specificity and Examples | Self-Reflection |
Beliefs and Values
Articulate your core beliefs and values regarding education, learning, and teaching. What principles guide your teaching philosophy? Be specific and genuine in your expressions.
Pedagogical Approach
Explain how you implement your teaching philosophy in practical terms. Provide specific examples of readings, activities, discussions, assignments, or any other teaching methods you use to help students reach their goals. Show the link between your beliefs and your teaching practices.
Goals for Students
Describe the goals you have for your students. What do you aim for them to achieve, both academically and personally? These goals should align with your broader teaching philosophy.
Theory and Practice Connection
Make explicit connections between educational theory and your teaching practices. Explain the "what," "how," and "why" of your teaching. Show how your actions are rooted in your beliefs and values about education.
Inclusivity
Address how you create an inclusive teaching environment. Explain your strategies for fostering a classroom where all students, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive.
Assessment and Evaluation
Discuss how you evaluate and assess student work. Explain the criteria and methods you use to measure students' progress and achievements. Highlight any innovative or effective assessment techniques you employ.
Specificity and Examples
Use concrete examples from your teaching experiences to illustrate how your beliefs and practices align. Avoid general or clichéd statements. Provide instances where your teaching philosophy has been put into action and has had a positive impact on students' learning.
Self-Reflection
Use this opportunity to reflect on your own pedagogy. How has your teaching evolved over time? What have you learned from your experiences, and how has it shaped your teaching philosophy? Reflect on your ongoing commitment to improving your teaching.