Christian Education Beliefs

A. Summary of Beliefs in First Philosophy Education Paper
My initial beliefs reflected that an effective Christian educator would support three specific conditions to promote learning of all students. The three essential conditions included a foundation of respect, being an active listener, and engaging in a “fail forward” attitude. Student learning is a multi-faceted paradigm that requires varying approaches. In order for educators to effectively meet the needs of each student, they must proficiently equipped with a repertoire of strategies and demonstrate positive engaging dispositions.
An educator’s disposition influence instructional methods, learning environment, and relationships within the classroom. In order to maximize effectiveness
Beliefs that Changed and Have Been Affirmed
The three specific conditions necessary to promote learning of all students were affirmed. Educators must model for students the essential skills to build effective relationships to promote an optimal learning environment. Most important, is that these conditions must be demonstrated in an authentic manner because students are sensitive and can easily identify counterfeit feedback. The effective Christian educators’ dispositions were affirmed, but need to be modified.
While knowledge and wisdom are highly necessary, they are useless if they are not applied. The brain cannot retain what is learned unless it is actionably applied to daily practices. In order to apply knowledge, educators must possess grit! It takes biblical steadfastness and endurance to persevere through the planning, teaching, assessing, and classroom managing that pushes educators forward. Lastly, to profit from correction educators should be able to learn from others as well as engage in self-reflections.
C. Evidence for Beliefs That Changed and
During my professional development, I learned three great instructional methods for the classroom. Had I not reached out to other colleagues and asked questions that information would not have been retained. Attending seminars and professional developments are great resources for learning, but the effectiveness of learning is manifested through application.
Application of learning takes tenacious grit. Grit is cultivated through purposeful planning that ensures vertical aligned learning that meets the need of each student. The amount of time it takes to plan for differentiation and learning styles to meet cross-curricular demands and gather resources all while maintaining positive behavior management can leave a fatigued heaviness on the brain. As a Christian educator, I am thankful for sheer endurance that is empowered by God’s grace that keeps me moving towards the goal despite external challenges and internal