Ciara Connolly Professional Portfolio

Philosophy of Teaching Statement

As an educator with a passion for art, I deeply value the role artistic education plays in the holistic growth of students, both personally and academically. I am committed to fostering empathy, compassion, and dedication within my classroom. I prioritise inclusivity, providing a space where students' diverse backgrounds and experiences are celebrated and inform our collective learning journey, giving them substantial agency in their educational endeavours.
 

Understanding the diverse ways in which students learn informs my approach to teaching. I am intentional about designing lessons that offer a range of learning and assessment activities, ensuring that every student's needs are met. Community is the cornerstone of my classroom. I strive to implement a constructivist approach where students are encouraged to actively participate in their learning, enhancing their engagement and understanding.
 

Driven by a passion for fostering consciousness around social issues, I integrate themes such as climate change, social justice, and habitat conservation into the curriculum. I advocate for project-based and inquiry-based learning as powerful pedagogical tools that drive my students to explore real-world issues through their art, leading to more prosperous, more immersive educational experiences.
 

Constant growth is critical as a professional. Engaging with fellow educators, artists, theorists, and researchers enriches my practice, sparking innovation and expanding my expertise. This ensures that I deliver an education that is both relevant and transformative.

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​I would like to focus on creating an inclusive classroom that fosters flexibility, creativity, respect, and experimentation. My goal is to design lessons that have strong cross-curricular links and integrate visual culture throughout. Additionally, I believe it's important to share my knowledge about the diverse range of creative careers available to students. Art, design, visual culture, and creative methodologies are highly rewarding areas of interest for students, regardless of whether they plan to pursue a career in these fields.