“When we don’t reflect, we just do.” -Dr. S. Kemp, July 8, 2011
How often are teachers asked to share what they believe about education and 
learning? And beyond that, how often are teachers allowed to send this information to their school or school division’s cloud of knowledge? I was asked what I believe about teaching and education when I was in my undergraduate degree, but what do you really know about education before you swim in the pool? Then we are encouraged to reflect when we get out into the field of teaching, but who has time? You are trying to teach 5 curricula, running 3 extra curricular activities, supervising, covering division initiatives, and trying to fit sleep in there somewhere. So, reflecting and considering beliefs falls onto the back burner.
I was not asked to reflect on education, my beliefs, and where I fit in the education realm until I began my masters course. This is a skill that I feel ALL teachers should have – even if they don’t take a master’s program. Knowing your beliefs about education allows you to really see your path and where you want to go. Teachers with this sense of self are able to better resonate with their division’s beliefs, or understand why they are not vibrating in unison with the rest of the staff or administration.
These skills can’t be simply used once, obviously. Teachers need to reflect and re-reflect. and re-reflect, and etc. Knowing your beliefs about education allows teachers to see where they want to go and who they are inside the classroom.
Take a minute and reflect about that. What are your beliefs?
Frizzics 
Reflect, reflect, reflect…I know my undergrad students get so tired of hearing this word but we know how important this is.
What you say is true…”what do you really know about education before you swim in the pool?” But…we need to know basic strokes as to how to stay afloat when we hit the pool and reflecting on beliefs & practices is so critical.
“Knowing your beliefs about education allows you to really see your path and where you want to go.” You have great insight into your own beliefs and practices and you are willing to dig deep within. You are an ‘inquiring’ teacher who wants to instill the love of learning (especially Physics) for your students.
Great blog with many postings – I hope you continue writing as I look forward to reading about your research.