Teaching Philosophy Statement: It is time to think outside the box

Authors

  • Nazlee Sharmin University of Alberta
  • Ava K Chow University of Alberta

Keywords:

Teaching philosophy statement, Traditional teaching, Medical School, Alternative of teaching philosophy statement, reflective essay, short video introduction

Abstract

The teaching philosophy statement in Canadian academia is integral to applying for faculty positions, promotions, awards, and grants. However, the notion of philosophy is quite unfamiliar to many science students and educators, which is one main audience for this Note from the Field. Moreover, teaching is no longer limited to a traditional didactic model. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many new technology-infused, online, and hybrid teaching models became popular. Years-old philosophies no longer fit with many of the latest innovative teaching approaches. We suggest considering some creative but equally effective alternatives for formal teaching philosophy statements. A reflective essay or short video introduction are two such possibilities which can be equally effective in evaluating one’s teaching practices and goals.

Author Biographies

Nazlee Sharmin , University of Alberta

is an associate teaching professor at the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry at the University of Alberta in Canada. She completed her PhD in Physiology, Cell, and Developmental Biology and an MEd from the University of Alberta. Her research interest focuses on developing technologies in classroom teaching to improve students’ learning experiences.

Ava K Chow, University of Alberta

is an associate professor at the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry at the University of Alberta in Canada. She completed her PhD in Medical Sciences and an MEd from the University of Alberta. Her research interests include examining technology in education, foundational science education, and student wellness. In the lab, she studies the linkages between oral and systemic health.

References

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Published

2024-11-27

How to Cite

Sharmin, N., & Chow, A. (2024). Teaching Philosophy Statement: It is time to think outside the box. McGill Journal of Education / Revue Des Sciences De l’éducation De McGill. Retrieved from https://mje.mcgill.ca/article/view/10283

Issue

Advance Online Publication

Section

Notes from the Field

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