Brennan Anderson

Throughout the contents of this blog, I explore, reflect upon and make connections between my story, philosophy, practices and dreams as an educator. My desire to be an educator was born from my passions for the outdoors; in the hills I found a focus that framed my desire to learn with all of my energy. I wanted to know everything, from moss species to climbing knots, that was related to the mountains. I began teaching others about what I had discovered, and soon realized the rewarding nature of being an educator. My philosophy has been informed by these initial sparks on trails and ridge-tops. I wanted to learn because I was excited about it, and I had autonomy to explore and direct my own studies; I was invested in my exploration. I believe that students should be given a relative degree of self-direction so that they can frame their curricular studies within their passion set. This will drive an intrinsic motivation in my students to learn, and drive them to seek information for the sake of enlightenment. As I wanted to learn simply so that I could attain a robust understanding the mountains, students too, will blossom as learners with autonomy, and the ability to structure their studies.

Passionate, life-long learners can enhance democracy, and fulfill what I conceptualize to be the obligations of the teacher: to battle the democratic-deficit. Informed, and engaged citizens will validate democracy, and improve upon the political, economic, cultural and social progress of Canada.

Through my reflections, I unearth profound and exciting ways to further the development of critical, creative, informed, students with a capacity to have flexible thinking. The integration of the arts into the curriculum can stimulate classrooms with a spark that further propels student desire to learn for the sake of learning, and cultivates an ability to problem solve. Technology represents an area where I would like to further my professional development, as I have seen how impactful it can be in the pursuit of learning in the modern day classroom.

Teaching is an exciting, dynamic profession that continues to evolve alongside ongoing educational research. As a teacher, I want to position myself at the vanguard of the profession, and stay up to date with developments to constantly improve upon my ability to engage classes with meaningful, inclusive lessons that promote academic, social and emotional growth in my students. This blog represents my explorations and reflections between theory and practice.

An incredible love for skiing

Climbing Wedge Mountain, Near Pemberton,BC