Philosophy of Education
Introduction
An educational philosophy is a statement of a teacher’s guiding principles on the general issues and matters pertaining to education, i.e. how student learning and potential are most fully utilized and the teacher’s role in the classroom, school, community, and society (Blake, et. al., 2003). Individually, teachers come to class armed with a special set of principles and ideals that impact student’s performance. This author’s educational philosophy statement generalizes the principles of existentialism, in general. It is the baseline for self-reflection, professional growth and even community development.
This educational philosophy celebrates the human existence (Blake, et. al., 2003). It is very subjective and stresses personal meanings. It also emphasizes the present. Existentialists affirm self consciousness. Being an existentialist, I am very concerned with my students’ fulfillment. I am also very concerned with my students’ self-esteem and self-worth. The following generalizations guide my teaching principles as I explore more opportunities to be more effective in my profession. At times, this educational philosophy coincides with an existing teaching principles or an educational trend. It also supersedes other important and mandatory teaching guides.
The general purpose and goals of education is to maximize the human potential and so I believe. Hence, as a teacher, I intend to create a positive classroom atmosphere. I shall call upon the students to discuss questions and treat their shortcomings as chance for improvements not as a reflection of their abilities (Carr, 2003). I believe that education generally serves the following purposes:
- intellectual purposes, i.e. the development of reading, writing and mathematical skills;
- political purposes such as the assimilation of peoples;
- economic purposes such as job preparation; and
- social purposes such as the development of social and moral responsibility.
Schools are communities and they have a significant impact on society and education (Carr, 2003). They provide the students with a well-rounded social environment to help them deal with different people that they might encounter in real life (Carr, 2003). The main purpose of education is to give an education program which will challenge each child to develop his intellect to its capacity (Carr, 2003). Each individual should be accepted into this program as he is and be given the chance and the learning experiences appropriate to his individual ability level, learning rate and style, in an inviting environment. These experiences should enable each student to develop his skills in creative thinking, logical reasoning, problem solving, dealing with abstract concepts and practical application of knowledge (Carr, 2003). It is important that the natural desire to learn be nurtured so that each student will start the desire for learning which will be maintained throughout an individual’s lifetime.
Role of Teachers
Meanwhile, teachers serve as leaders and they partners with the parents for positive results. They must provide a positive atmosphere for maximum learning. They make the lesson plans interesting and unique in order to help the student learn most effectively. Teachers gain respect by keeping the students attention (Gingell & Winch, 2004). Thus, they have to make all lessons to be interesting and they have to employ the best teaching techniques and strategies in order to help every student learn effectively (Gingell & Winch, 2004). Teachers have to employ various learning styles such as: Kinesthetic, Visual, and Auditory. Students nowadays learn better by doing hands-on activities such as games, drawing, and other craft-like activities (Gingell & Winch, 2004). Also, teachers also have to perfectly deal with their students' problems. They have to resolve personal matters on each level.
Being a teacher, I shall bridge the students to the real world. I shall inculcate to them that there is no easy way out. Ultimately, I believe that the main purpose of education is to empower the students. Hence, I shall endeavor to ensure that they spend their time productively. I shall facilitate their learning process. I shall also attempt to lead in the school. I shall encourage my students to want to learn and how to behave well. I will also try my best to make learning fun and creative while being easy to understand.
Role of Students
The students also play a vital role in education. They can challenge the teachers in various ways. They could force the teachers to have to expand and alter their lessons so that they could fully understand the topics being taught. The students, thus, influences their own learning by their willingness to learn and perform in class. They are actually in-charge of their own education as they learn or not if they are willing or unwilling (Carr, 2003).
Role of Curriculum and Instruction
My philosophy in curriculum and instruction is to keep it simple and fundamental. I shall endeavor to find creative ways to combine the lessons into fun filled activities. This will make my students learn the lessons well. This is also an effective ploy to keep the students’ attention and let them realize that I am sincere in my teaching tasks. I also intend to create a classroom that is a safe learning environment for all the students. I believe that if the students are threatened emotionally, physically, or socially, their defense systems will react and learning will be negatively affected (Gingell & Winch, 2004). It is vital that students, including their parents, teachers, administrators, and people in the community see me as approachable, fair and non-discriminatory.
I also consider classroom organization is also a major element in my teaching. If students are in a disorganized classroom or set up, their learning is hindered. I must find creative, ingenious ways to have the classroom set up and to facilitate the students’ learning. I also believe in teaching content that is meaningful, applicable, and attractive to students. If they do not understand the point of the lesson then they will not be interested in it. I also believe that high energy levels and a positive attitude from the teacher are major ingredients to a successful learning environment.
References:
Bailey, R. (ed). (2010). The philosophy of education: an introduction. London: Coninuum.
Blake, n., Smeyers, P., Smith, D. & Standish, P (eds.) (2003). Blackwell Guide to the philosophy of education, Blackwell, Oxford.
Carr, D. (2003). Making Sense of Education. Routlede, London.
Gingell, J, Winch, C. (2004). Philosophy and Educational Policy: a critical introduction. CA: Routledge.
