As a young and naive teacher, I was unaware that educational philosophies even existed. Although I believed in fostering well-rounded students, my approach was primarily teacher-centered guided, as I now recognize, by the philosophy of essentialism.

Now, with over a decade of experience, I see the value of a student-centered approach to teaching, and my lessons are now guided by the initial educational philosophy of progressivism. As such, a stable
and sturdy bridge best describes me as a teacher.

A bridge is a structure that connects people and places, overcomes separation and obstacles, provides access, and creates pathways for successful and safe journeys. As a teacher, the metaphor of a bridge aligns with the progressivism approach of what it means to be an effective teacher. Business Studies involves complex theories, concepts, and principles, which can sometimes be overwhelming and boring for students. I see myself as the bridge that helps students connect theory to practical, real-world examples, enabling them to process it in a way that is meaningful, engaging, and relevant.

Just as a strong foundation prevents a bridge from collapsing, I strive to provide the support students need to feel secure and confident as they make these connections in a holistic and inclusive learning classroom environment. I plan to build my foundation by understanding students’ needs, then developing clear objectives, crafting interactive, meaningful, inclusive lesson plans, and incorporating student-centered learning activities, while maintaining good classroom management.

As I prepare my students to navigate a technology-driven and dynamic world, I see myself as a bridge built to withstand the weight of their challenges. The path of the bridge provides a direction for their travels as they journey towards life after Secondary School. I will guide them on this path by using a variety of learning instructions, including role-play activities, group projects, game-based learning, and interactive media, that bring concepts to life. I will also incorporate local entrepreneurs and business examples to help students link theories and concepts. By integrating technology, other subjects, HFLE, business scenarios, and educational games, these teaching strategies will make learning more fun while developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

From a pedagogical perspective, strengthening the bridge, and by extension improving my competency as a teacher, falls within the concept of being a reflective teacher. To serve my students as a supportive teacher, moving them from point A to point B, means I will have to evaluate the effectiveness of my teaching. This will be done through assessments, student feedback, and self-reflection. Student feedback is critical as it helps me to reflect and improve. In conclusion, as a bridge and from a progressivism educational standpoint, I hope to empower my students to become positive members of society academically, personally, and professionally. Being a sturdy, stable bridge is realizing teaching is not just about delivering content but also about inspiring and empowering students in their rights to be comfortable, confident, critical thinkers who can become the ideal Caribbean citizen.