Allen Stewart believes that as a global citizen and qualified educator, it is important to understand the theories behind what is taught and to reflect those theories in his teaching approach. His teaching philosophy is based on social constructivist and critical pedagogic approaches and includes developing students' preexisting knowledge, understanding the social functions of language, encouraging individual creativity, developing rapport while setting expectations, and constant self-reflection and evaluation.

1. ESL Teaching
Philosophy
By, Allen Stewart

2. Global Citizen & Qualified Educator

3. In my personal philosophy of teaching, I believe that it is important to be
consciously aware of the theory behind what I teach as well as the way that
I teach. It is very empowering for me to understand the theories associated
with my field and to be able to reflect those theories in my teaching
approach. Considering second language acquisition theory, my personal
teaching philosophy is based on social constructivist and critical pedagogic
approaches to language acquisition. Some of the more salient aspects of
my teaching philosophy include:
• The learner’s preexisting knowledge
• The social functions of language
• Individual creativity
• Student rapport
• Teacher self-reflection

4. Develop the learner’s preexisting
knowledge
Previous Knowledge
Capitalization of Strengths

5. Understand the social functions of
language
Critical Thinking
Practical Usage

6. Encourage individual creativity throughout
the learning process
Personal Innovation
Trial & Error

7. Develop and maintain rapport while
claiming legitimate authority
Rapport
Expectations

8. Engage in a constant process of self-
reflection and evaluation
Appraisal
Evolution