You are on page 1of 3

Developing a philosophy statement is a time for reflection and determination of goals; it

is a personal and professional mission statement. A philosophy statement provides one the
opportunity to identify core beliefs in their professional career and provides purpose and focus. I
have worked in healthcare as an educator for two years which has allowed me to understand the
value in identifying what guides my practice.
Nurse educators are charged with the responsibility of facilitating learning, this can be
done by showing my own passion for teaching, learning, as well as nursing that is motivating to
my students (NLN, 2012). If excitement and desire cannot be sensed by students, it will be
difficult to get students engaged in a topic. Finding a place in education that involves my
passion for nursing has been a pivotal point in my profession. Throughout my years as a nurse, I
loved my profession but always felt something was missing. When I entered into nursing
education two years ago, I felt I had finally found what I had been seeking the last 13 years.
Throughout my educational journey, I have been exposed to many theories that have
inspired my personal philosophy. Knowles Adult Learning theory and Weimers Learner
Centered Teaching theory have been most influential. As a nurse educator, I must facilitate
learner development and socialization, I am able to do this by individualizing my teaching based
on the learning styles and unique needs of each student (NLN, 2012). The Adult Learning theory
focuses on the needs of the learner and self-directed learning, while recognizing that adults learn
differently than children (Mitchell & Courtney, 2005; Wang, 2011). The Adult Learning theory
ties in well with Learner Centered Teaching, as Learner Centered Teaching seeks to more
effectively promote learning by modifying instructional practice and developing a learning
environment that stimulates and inspires the student to learn (Weimer, 2012). A teacher must
understand her students needs to effectively develop an environment that will lead to motivated
student learning.

I want to create a culture of caring, safety, and open communication with my students. I
believe this can be done by intertwining Jean Watsons Theory of Caring into my teaching
process. By utilizing Watsons Ten Carative Factors, my teaching practice is guided by care
which fosters an environment where each students unique needs will be recognized and
nurtured. While allowing students to know that they can ask questions and seek feedback
without fear, as well as share with me parts of their life that might impact their learning potential,
I am able to truly understand what each student might need to meet their educational goals.
I believe nursing and teaching are similar in many ways. Both require the ability to see
that although each human is different on the outside, the basic needs on the inside are very
similar. People want to have their needs met, feel understood, and feel like someone believes in
them. In both nursing and teaching, one must look past any differences, understand each
students needs and deliver the best, most individualized care to get the greatest outcomes.
I want to inspire my students and guide each one to aspire to be the best nurse in the
profession, striving to provide safe, quality care. Through the use of leaner-centered concepts
and recognition of each students unique needs, a model of caring is exhibited to students. This
same model of caring in education can be interwoven into nursing and ignite a strong desire in
each student to impact the nursing profession.

Mitchell, M. L. & Courtney, M. (2005). Improving transfer from the intensive care unit: The
development, implementation and evaluation of a brochure based on Knowles Adult
Learning Theory. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 11(6), p. 257-268.
National League for Nursing [NLN]. (2012). The Scope of Practice for Academic Nurse
Educators. New York, NY: National League for Nursing.
Wang, E. E. (2011). Simulation and adult learning. Disease a Month, 57, p. 664-678.
Weimer, M. (2013). Learner-centered teaching: Five key changes to practice. San Francisco,
CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

You might also like