HED4804
Assignment 5 (Based on Entire Module)
DUE 1 OCTOBER 2025
2025
1. Introduction (150 words) - Briefly introduce your background,
professional aspirations, and the context in which you teach (or plan to
teach). Then, also explain why you believe a personal teaching and
learning philosophy is important in your development as an educator.
0 7 6 4 0 3 1 2 2 9
, HED4804 Assignment 5 (Based on Entire Module)
DUE 1 OCTOBER 2025
1. Introduction (150 words) - Briefly introduce your background, professional aspirations,
and the context in which you teach (or plan to teach). Then, also explain why you believe a
personal teaching and learning philosophy is important in your development as an
educator.
As a Foundation Phase and early childhood educator in South Africa, my professional
journey is rooted in a commitment to inclusive, learner-centered education that nurtures
holistic child development. I specialize in designing developmentally appropriate lessons
that integrate cognitive, emotional, physical, and social growth, while also engaging in
educational research grounded in qualitative methodology and interpretivist paradigms.
My teaching context is shaped by the diverse realities of South African classrooms, where
equity, cultural responsiveness, and learner voice are essential.
Developing a personal teaching and learning philosophy is vital to my growth as an
educator because it allows me to critically reflect on my evolving identity, clarify my
pedagogical values, and align theory with practice. It serves as both a compass and a
mirror—guiding my decisions and revealing areas for growth. Influenced by theorists such
as Vygotsky, Piaget, and Freire, I believe that meaningful learning emerges through social
interaction, active exploration, and empowerment. This philosophy helps me remain
intentional, responsive, and reflective in my practice, ensuring that I advocate for all
learners and contribute to systemic transformation in education.
Reference:
Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the Oppressed. New York: Herder and Herder.
Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological
Processes. Harvard University Press.
2. Teaching and Learning Philosophy Statement (250 words) - Explain your beliefs about
the primary goals of education and how you envision contributing to these aims as an
educator. Thereafter, discuss your teaching methods, the role of the educator and the
student in the learning process, and how you create a conducive learning environment.
Include issues of social justice principles guiding your practice and your commitment to
fostering equity and inclusion.