Teaching Philosophy I believe in teaching students “how to learn,” which is the biggest skill they can take into the real world. My classes are designed to encourage the students to be a self-sufficient learner, with me as a guide. I want to show them the path, but have them walk the path. Therefore, I give students a lot of responsibility outside of class, but do so without giving much homework. I think grades should be a reflection of what a student is actively learning. Anyone can simply fill out a worksheet or answer some questions at the end of a chapter, but have they really learned the material? This requires students to pay attention in class, ask questions, take good notes, read the book, and study all on their own initiative.