Philosophy of Education
In my argument, I would like heavily borrow from the propositions of Maria Montessori and John Dewey. My philosophy of education is therefore based on learner-centered learning in which the learner becomes the focal point of the teaching and learning process (Kolb, D., 2004). As an early childhood specialist, I believe that pre-school stage of learning should be highly regarded because it is the real foundation in a pupil’s education experience.
Hence, learning should be made more pragmatic by actively engaging the learners. They should be taught a wide range of subjects and be given an ample opportunity to engage in physical activities. Besides, the teacher should have background knowledge of each student and treat them as individuals with specific demands, interests, weaknesses and backgrounds. It is for this reason that I support that the teacher should strive to use his pedagogic knowledge to create a conducive environment to accommodate all the learners (Thomson, I., 2002).
Moreover, in my philosophy, I advocate for a close collaboration between the teacher and parents. In order to have a deeper understanding of all the learners, the teacher should strive to be always in a close contact with the parents. This is the only way through which he will be able to get to know each of the learners and get to understand their peculiar needs (Bruner, J.S., 2000). Therefore, it will be easier for him to draft a daily teaching program which suits each of them. This will give room for class and play times.
In conclusion, I would like to say that early childhood education should be taken seriously. It is the basis of learning and should be properly planned and executed. A part from adopting a learner centered approach; the teacher should liaise with the parents as he engages learners into a more pragmatic curriculum.
References
Bruner, J.S. (2000). The process of education, Cambridge, MA: Harvard
Kolb, D. (2004). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning
and development. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Thomson, I. (2002). "Heidegger on Ontological Education"". In Peters,
Michael A. Heidegger, Education, and Modernity. New York, NY:
Rowman and Littlefield.
