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Educational Philosophy: The Intellectual Foundations of American Education

ED 1010

What is Philosophy?
The investigation of causes and laws underlying reality Inquiry into the nature of things based on logical reasoning rather than empirical methods A system of values by which one lives

Educational Philosophy
A philosophy about education requires systematic, critical thinking about educational practice. A teachers educational philosophy helps the educator interpret, find meaning, and direct the daily work of the classroom
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Philosophy and Teacher Professionalism


All professions have philosophical underpinnings. Educational philosophy is one important aspect of teachers professional knowledge.

Traditional Schools of Philosophy


Educational Philosophies have roots in these schools

Idealism Realism

Asserts that because the physical world is always changing, ideas are the only reliable form of reality The features of the universe exist whether or not a human being is there to perceive them.
Rejects the idea of absolute, unchanging truth, instead asserting that truth is what works humanity isnt part of an orderly universe; rather individuals create their own realities.

Pragmatism

Existentialism

Philosophy and Cultural Minorities


The philosophies that we embrace are influenced by the cultures we live in. Western philosophy heavily emphasizes individualism and rational thought. Other world cultures place greater relative emphasis on the wisdom of elders, feelings and personal relationships, and harmony.
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Basic Philosophies of Education


Perennialism Essentialism Behaviorism Progressivism Existentialism Postmodernism (Critical Theory)
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Perennialism

One should teach things that one deems to be of everlasting importance to all people everywhere

An educational philosophy suggesting that nature, including human nature, is constant. Roots in both Idealism and Realism Rigorous intellectual curriculum for all students, classic works
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Essentialism

Children should learn the traditional basic subjects and these should be learned thoroughly and rigorously.

An educational philosophy suggesting that a critical core of knowledge and skills exists that all people should possess Roots in Idealism and Realism Back to basics movements Standards, testing, cultural literacy What is essential can change
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Behaviorism
Behaviorism is a theory of animal and human learning that only focuses on objectively observable behaviors and discounts mental activities. Behavior theorists define learning as nothing more than the acquisition of new behavior. Used by teachers when they reward (reinforce) or punish behaviors
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http://www.funderstanding.com/content/behaviorism

Progressivism
An educational philosophy emphasizing curricula that focus on real-world problem solving and individual development. Roots in Pragmatism Constructivism John Dewey
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opXKmwg8VQM

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Existentialism
A educational philosophy built on a viewpoint in which school curriculum and instruction should encourage deep personal reflection on ones identity, commitments, and choices. Focuses on the existence of the individual and individual responsibility People are responsible for defining themselves through their choices Educations most important goal is to awaken human consciousness Education should focus on both cognitive and affective dimensions 12

Postmodernism (Critical Theory)


An educational philosophy contending that many of the institutions in our society, including schools, are used by those in power to marginalize those who lack power. Roots in Existentialism History / Classics examined for power issues, struggles of marginalized groups Criticized for using schools for political purposes
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Practice
Evaluate your own educational philosophy Graphic organizer: What would a teacher say, think, and act? Evaluate the educational philosophy of the following teachers:
http://www.davis.k12.ut.us/staff/sbaylis/speech2.html http://www.davis.k12.ut.us/staff/mharrison/ http://www.rmjr.weber.k12.ut.us/teacherpages/jackson.htm 15 http://www.wsdstaff.net/~spotokar/video/index.htm

Standards and Essential Knowledge


The current emphasis on standards is based largely on essentialism, the belief that there is a critical core of knowledge all students should master. Advocates of standards (and essentialism) believe that the major role of schools should be to ensure that all students master a core of knowledge. Critics of standards (and essentialism) respond that most crucial knowledge is learned through rote memorization, soon becoming forgotten or inert, and fails to influence students current or future lives. 16

Philosophies of Education in Urban Environments


Because of the challenges involved in urban teaching, developing a coherent philosophy of education is even more important. Beliefs, both positive and negative, about urban learners can have profound influences on urban teachers and the way they teach.
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Where do you stand?


Urban students are much like all students; they want to learn, but they need some help and encouragement Urban students dont want to learn and theyre only in school because theyre required to be there

Urban students need caring Urban students believe and supportive teachers, as do respecting and liking teachers is all students viewed as a sign of weakness Working in an urban setting is much like working in any other school Working in an urban setting is dangerous, and teachers must be vigilant to prevent possible personal harm

Homework is as important a There is little point in assigning part of instruction when homework to urban students, working with urban students as because they wont do it 18 it is with all students

Developing Your Philosophy of Education


Philosophy can guide practice and help you explain and defend your educational goals. The process of developing a philosophy begins with examining your own beliefs about teaching, learning, and students. An analysis of educational philosophies can assist teachers in forming their own personal, and probably eclectic, personal philosophy.
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Reflection Paper #2: Your own philosophy of education


Develop your own philosophy of education based on your own educational experiences, a critical examination of your personal perceptions related to teaching, and information learned in class about educational philosophies Be sure to include
Your perceptions of how education should be conducted How that relates to the educational philosophies learned in class Personal examples to illustrate each philosophical element
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