Preparing a Teacher Resume: Include a Teaching Philosophy

One very unique way in which a teacher-applicant can distinguish himself or herself on a resume is through the inclusion of a teaching philosophy.  Indicative of one’s entire approach to education, and perhaps the underlying rationale for entering the field, the philosophy defines and colors a teacher’s individual perspective.  It directs the manner in which he/she plans and executes the basic functions of an instructor, and moreover, a facilitator and role model.  It underpins the development of a new course or enrichment of existing curricula, design and implementation of lesson plans, selection or creation of learning aids, and establishment of disciplinary tactics.  It determines the way that an educator interacts with students, including methods of organizing and motivating students to actually enjoy learning.  Ultimately, a teaching philosophy offers the hiring authority clarification as to how an educator transfers his or her knowledge to students.

Invariably, every educator maintains the outlook that each student possesses the ability to learn.  Individual teaching philosophies, therefore, can focus on the ways that teachers stimulate learning among students whose academic abilities, behavioral histories, and social/cultural backgrounds vary greatly.  Teaching philosophies can provide insight as to educators’ adaptive teaching approaches, techniques for promoting positive conduct, and methods of ensuring that each student receives recognition and praise for her/her efforts.

Every educator can benefit from the provision of a personal ideology via his or her resume; however, newly certified teachers will find particular value in this strategy.  Unlike their more seasoned colleagues, new teachers’ salient and often sole marketing point is their student teaching experience.  A well-crafted teaching philosophy can support as well as further highlight that experience, beyond the actual duties performed in the classroom during a single semester.

While some educators prepare detailed philosophies, lengthier versions should be relegated to one’s professional portfolio.  For purposes of providing potential employers with resumes, teaching philosophies should be crystallized into a single, succinct paragraph.  As an integral part of one’s resume, the teaching philosophy can pave the way for interviews during which one’s unique approach can be further examined.