7 Cornerstones of my teaching philosophy:

1- When it comes to curriculum-preparation and lesson-planning: Plan lessons and curricula that teach students how to think, not what to think.

2- When it comes to assessment: Ensure a balance between assessment OF learning, assessment FOR learning and assessment AS learning; as well as a balance between teacher-assessment, peer-assessment and self-assessment.

3- When it comes to feedback: Give timely and relevant feedback that focuses on positives as well as suggestions for improvement; and allow opportunities for students to give each other feedback.

4- When it comes to my classroom: Create a classroom culture and environment that is inclusive and where students feel safe to take risks and step out of their comfort zones; and this is made much easier through building meaningful relationships and having good rapport with the students.

5- When it comes to my teaching strategies and methods: Cater and differentiate to all forms of diversity between students: learning styles, learning abilities, personalities, gender, cultural/religious background, i.e. there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ teaching in my classroom.

6- When it comes to classroom-management: Communicate your expectations clearly, reward positive behavior, be consistent and always give the students the benefit of the doubt.

7- When it comes to my professional development: Continue to push yourself out of your own comfort zone, take on new challenges and never stop learning; and share, share, share!