When was the last time you considered why you teach the way you do? A teaching philosophy statement (TPS) is more than an academic exercise—it reflects your goals, values, and priorities as an educator. Whether preparing for the academic job market or just starting as a TA, crafting your TPS can help clarify your approach to teaching and connect with your students more effectively.

So, what is a teaching philosophy statement, exactly? Think of it as a 1-2 page narrative that explains your teaching style, strategies, and goals. It’s your chance to show potential employers (or yourself!) how you create meaningful learning experiences. A great TPS answers questions like: What motivates you to teach? How do you adapt to different learning styles? What makes your classroom unique?

Getting Started

If you’re staring at a blank page, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here’s a simple framework to help:

1. Introduction: Share why you teach. What excites you about helping others learn?
2. Core Principles: Highlight key values or strategies (e.g., fostering inclusivity, encouraging curiosity, or making material relatable).
3. Specific Examples: Show how you apply these principles—mention a memorable class activity or how you use feedback to support student growth.
4. Future Goals: Wrap up by discussing how you want to grow as an educator.

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Why It Matters

A strong teaching philosophy doesn’t just make you a better job candidate; it helps you become a more intentional educator. Reflecting on your teaching practices can reveal areas for growth, remind you of what’s working, and give you a sense of purpose when the quarter gets tough.

Here’s a little homework: Start drafting your teaching philosophy today. Even a few bullet points can get the ball rolling! Need inspiration? Check out the Career and Job Market Writing Resources page on our website.

Here you’ll find information on our Teaching Philosophy Statement Asynchronous Course!

The Graduate Writing Center (GWC) and Teaching Assistant Development Program (TADP) are collaborating to support graduate students and postdocs in preparing for the job market. They have created an asynchronous course to help guide course participants in writing the teaching philosophy statement, an essential job market document for those seeking academic jobs. The GWC and TADP programs co-created this course to provide students with the skills necessary to pursue their professional endeavors by deeply reflecting on their teaching practices and developing their statements at their own pace. 

The asynchronous course is now open. Check the course main page for more information regarding registration processes.

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Let’s Reflect: What’s one teaching strategy that’s worked well for you? How would you describe your engagement techniques with someone in a different field or a family member?