A large plaque hangs from the wall of my office that expresses part of what I feel about this
 

professionand my teaching philosophy.  It simply reads, IMAGINE in bold, black letters.  Although
 

I may havedifficulty on occasion incorporating creativity and imagination into my daily teaching
 

strategies, I holdfast to the belief that fostering and developing curiosity and creativity is crucial to the
 

learning process.  Albert Einstein has been quoted commenting on teaching and curiosity when he
 

stated, It is, in fact, nothing short of a miracle that the modern methods of instruction have not
 

entirely strangled the holy curiosity of inquiry (Lewis, 2006).

            Another factor contributing towards shaping my teaching philosophy is my personal

background.  My father was a math teacher, but he did not become one until later in life while, along

 with my mother, he struggled to raise and provide for a family of 10 children.  Creative (and

inexpensive) opportunities for learning were always promoted.  There were often trips to the zoo and

botanical gardens where we not only had fun, but also learned about nature.  His influence, values,

and beliefs filtered there way into my psyche through my older brothers and sisters.   Learning and

knowledge were seen as an opportunity not to be wasted.  According to my parents, education was an

 e-ticket to success in life.  I also try to have a little fun in my life when I am not grading papers and

preparing fortheory and clinical.  I have two sweet little ( 13 and 15 lbs.) orange tabby kitties who just loves to

snuggle--especially when I have work to do!  I also am very involved with my nephews and nieces, and I

have a very big family! 

As an instructor, I try to remember that creativity in the learning process benefits both instructor and

student.   My teaching philosophy can be demonstrated in other ways as a reflection of the different

roles that I assume in my career here at SPC.  As  faculty, I serve on  the Student Life committee, and

I encourage participation in the Student Nurses Association.   I interact with students on a daily basis advising them on

coursework, career choices, and learning strategies. 
              


                As your instructor, I will:

                Log in to Mycourses on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays to check emails, etc.
  
                Provide updates or news via mycourses announcements/news

                Have your assignments graded within 7 business days of due date

                Enter your grade within 48 hours of test completion

                Email: velazquez.ruth@spcollege.edu

             

             
 

 

Lewis, J.J. (n.d.). Wisdom quotes: Quotations to inspire and challenge. Retrieved     January 23, 2006, from http://www.wisdomquotes.com/cat_education.html