Alana R. Bowles

My Educational Philosophy

 

The fine arts find their importance: 

 

in the practice of skill application,

in helping to teach initiative, time management, and organizational skills,

in analytical thinkingproblem solving and

in understanding and maturity,

and in inspiring creativity.

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I believe that the primary purpose of education is to create opportunity for students.

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This does not mean that we should focus only upon aiding students in reaching their goals for higher education or suitable careers. 

Instead - 

We should strive to create opportunities that enhance every aspect of a student’s life.

We should be there to help students develop their ability to learn.

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By developing a curriculum that emphasizes connections and supports practical application,

I can better motivate my students in becoming well-rounded learners who can naturally utilize higher-order-thinking skills within every aspect of their lives.

 

The educational environment of my art studio classroom will always offer a safe yet stimulating atmosphere –

one that inspires the sharing of ideas,

supports risk-taking,

and upholds respect and well being for all individuals.

 

An educator should provide proper motivation and direction and be approachable, fair, and nondiscriminatory.

Those educators, that work together with their students, are those that will strive to meet any learning needs by employing a variety of teaching strategies and skills.

Students should feel comfortable in sharing and critiquing ideas and they should never be fearful of making mistakes –

instead they should be motivated and excited to learn from them.

 

As an art educator, I will act as a guide to help my students understand, not only themselves, but the world around them and their impact upon it. It is my duty to see my students, not only as who they are now, but who they could become.

 

Education should inspire students to become life-long learners that are inquisitive about themselves, their communities, and their world.

 

 

All voices should be heard.

All individuals should be seen as significant.

All educators should ensure that learning is both accessible and obtainable.  

 

 

 

The Visual Arts Encourage:

Deeper learning,

Practice & mastery of core academic content,

The ability to think critically and solve complex problems,

The capacity to engage & work collaboratively,

The capability to communicate effectively,

The gift to think & work creatively.

 

 

 

Alana Bowles 

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