How lecturers' beliefs shape their world of teaching

Abstract

Until we utilize our ability to choose our worldview, to choose our beliefs, to choose the reality in which we wish to live, behavior remains habitual and unexamined" (Yero 2002:234). This article explains and discusses the influence of lecturers' beliefs on teaching. It is important for lecturers to engage in mindful teaching by becoming aware of their momentary doings. If lecturers could discover how their own mental models of reality (i.e. beliefs) shape the world within the classroom, they have the opportunity to make mindful decisions. It is recommended that lecturers do a self-inventory to help identify their patterns of thought and bring into consciousness the beliefs and values that underlies their teaching. Because each lecturer's thinking processes and interpretations are unique, only they can determine what changes need to be made in the classroom environment.