Education Outline and Rationale

Running head: Educational Philosophy Outline and Rationale

Educational Philosophy Outline and Rationale

Karimah Collins

Grand Canyon University

EDU 576

July 3, 2010

Educational Philosophy Outline and Rationale

Philosophies in education may vary from school to school and teacher to teacher. Through the years, there have been vast changes in technology, values, and ideals. In this paper, my educational philosophy and rationale for that philosophy will be explained. Based on my belief statements from module one, I will include my mission statement as an educator. I will also describe my own educational philosophy as it relates to metaphysics, epistemology, axiology, and logic. Although I have chosen the philosophy that seems to best fit my classroom, there are several elements from other philosophies that encompass some of my beliefs.

My Educational Philosophy Outline

I. The Teacher’s Philosophy

A. Believes that all students are capable of learning

1. Basic skills are an important foundation for students

2. Rules and regulations within the classroom must be consistent

3. Realistic goals must be set and in place for students

B. Learning environment must be positive and conducive to learning

C. Strive to have all students performing at grade level

D. Develop a strong support system for struggling students

II. Student Accountability

A. Participate wholeheartedly in class

B. Respect teacher and peers

III. Faculty and Staff

A. To actively promote a positive learning environment.

1. Show cohesiveness as a staff.

2. Develop curriculum designed to increase standardized test scores.

3. Enhance creative thinking skills in the classroom.

B. Work together to establish a school wide reward system for exceptional students.

1. Establish several communication tools for parents’ use.

2. Create programs to help students master the basic skills needed to further enhance their education.

My Mission Statement

My mission statement states that: It is my mission to instill in my students that they are all capable of learning. Teaching and learning should feel rewarding and should create a sense of educational growth within the students as well as the teacher. If the basics are taught and mastered, then we can move forth progressively as a whole.

Educational Philosophy in Terms of Other Elements

Metaphysics is defined as the branch of philosophy concerned with the ultimate nature of reality. Realism relates closely to metaphysic and is also one of the philosophies I use within my classroom. Epistemology deals with human knowledge based on the investigation of nature and physics. I do not necessarily agree with this element because it goes against my beliefs that certain concepts should be taught and mastered regardless of ability. Axiology deals with values, as those of ethics, aesthetics, or religion. I can agree that some of the elements of axiology have the students’ best interest at heart. I feel that all students should have the right to a proper education. This means that although I do believe that students should learn the same things regardless of ability, they should still receive a fair chance at learning and mastering the material. Logic deals with the method of reasoning. In order to have good reasoning skills, students must fall back on those essential skills taught and mastered throughout their schooling. This refers back to my belief that essentialism is the key to the early growth and understanding within the student. The fundamental skills from reading, writing, and math will help to enhance and develop other skills that are more challenging to the student. Most things in life require a foundation. For example, if someone wanted to be a doctor, then they must have a good foundation in the area of science. If someone wanted to be an engineer, then they must have a strong foundation in math. This holds true for most professions. There must be a solid foundation before you can master a skill. As stated in some of my earlier writings, I reject other philosophies that are not in close relation to mine because they pose a difficult task for teachers. Teachers should not have to worry the cultures, ideals, or values of every student in their classroom. Yes, those values and beliefs should be respected, but they may never have to become an issue if class is more about learning the skills needed to become a productive citizen. Some philosophies such as progressivism and pragmatism seem to help create excuses for students who like to find reasons for not learning. I know that students should feel comfortable in the classroom setting. If they become accustomed to a specific way of doing things in your class, then that familiarity should keep them grounded and on task throughout the school year.

Implementing My Educational Philosophy

In my classroom, the rules are consistently the same. The students always know what to expect. There is no preferential treatment to any student in my classroom, nor do I make the rules as I go. These same beliefs are evident in my class when dealing with academics as well. Students know that they have to take the necessary steps to get an assignment done before he/she is allowed to make excuses for why the assignment cannot be completed. I am a firm believer that students must know the basics before they can master anything else. Through the use of essentialism and realism, I will strive to teach the common core. The common core is the basics of information and skills needed to function in our society. Once the basic skills are taught and mastered, the student can then make an easier transition into higher academia.

References

Cohen, M. LeoNora & Gelbrich, Judy. (2003). Philosophy and Education Continuum Chart.

Retrieved June 25, 2010, from Oregon State University, Education and Schooling in

America: http://oregonstate.edu/instruct/ed416

Gutek, G.L. (1997). Philosophical and ideological perspectives on education. Boston:

Allyn and Bacon.

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References: Cohen, M. LeoNora & Gelbrich, Judy. (2003). Philosophy and Education Continuum Chart. Retrieved June 25, 2010, from Oregon State University, Education and Schooling in America: http://oregonstate.edu/instruct/ed416 Gutek, G.L. (1997). Philosophical and ideological perspectives on education. Boston: Allyn and Bacon. ----------------------- Educational Philosophy 1