Teaching is an enlightening process; it helps individuals see the light, to see beyond that which is unknown and gain knowledge and understanding from it. The role of a teacher is similar to the role of the returned-prisoner in Plato’s Allegory of the Cave -- the teacher guides the students to enlightenment and to the real source of truth. By achieving enlightenment, students may then develop into independent free thinkers that hold their beliefs and ideas strong against corruption. As Plato believes, “the more courageous and intelligent the mind is, the less likely it is that an external agent would disturb it and alter it.” The more independent and truth-seeking students become, the better will our society become because, as Plato explains, “in the realm of knowledge is goodness.” I believe, therefore, that students can be all they can be. Enlightened students have no limitations, no boundaries. They encompass all possibilities and all dreams. But in order to be a successful and enlightening teacher, I must help students find themselves by detecting their strengths and weaknesses. By further strengthening their strengths and weaknesses, students become conscious of their real selves, as well as their place in society. By becoming strong individuals, students also become independent. Efficient learning takes place when the student realizes its strengths and place in society because the student now has to possess the necessary knowledge to be an independent and productive member of society. What motivates me to become a teacher is the fact that many students in my community are opting for dropping out of school and ending up in menial jobs rather than pursuing a higher education. My community cannot function better as a whole when many people are unable to become strong individuals that cannot think critically. It is for this reason that I want to teach in order to become like Plato’s returned-prisoner and help enlighten these students and guide them into a better path. I believe the reason why many students drop out is because they do not know what is out there in life; they just want immediate gratification and want to live the pseudo-life presented in television. They have no idea what reality is; this can be harmful because corporations and institutions can take advantage of their ignorance. I want my students to go into four-year universities by the masses rather than joining the ranks of McDonald’s. In the process of becoming a teacher, I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English because I believe that I can make the greatest impact on students through literature. It is through literature that one learns to be a critical and independent thinker. I also have taken several sociology classes in order to understand the dynamics and factors that influence individuals. In addition, these sociology classes will be helpful in determining the strengths and weaknesses of students and how to accommodate and help them move further. I want to be an excellent teacher. I think I can take on the challenge and help bring hope to students and our communities. All challenges can be successfully met with hope. |
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Index | About Me | Philosophy | Resume | Work Samples Web Site Created By Rafael Mercado |
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