After reading
through all the different philosophies I found that I was able to identify with
most of them in one way or another. However, if I had to choose the one that I
identify with the most, it would be Pragmatism. I chose pragmatism over the
others because I am a strong believer in the idea of teaching a learner to
think and reason will produce more of a well rounded person. They will also be
able to operate more effectively in various settings.
In my opinion, the
purpose of education is to provide students with the essential knowledge that
will help them to function successfully in and out of the classroom. Education
should encourage the development of problem-solving, critical thinking, sound
deductive reasoning and decision-making skills.
The learner’s
role in education is to be prepared and ready to absorb the data. The learner
should then carefully consider what is being presented, and investigate the
theory in order prove or disprove the idea themselves. They should be ready to
share an informed view, ask questions and work collaboratively.
Educator’s role is
to move from instructor to facilitator. They should supply students with the
basics and allow them to explore the data given in order to develop a better
understanding or a whole new one. Educators should not feel as though the
student cannot be the teacher. Instead they should be open to learning from
them or at the least be receptive to new ideas, whether it is agreeable or
not.
I believe that
experience and exploration are two of the best teachers the best teachers. Once
the knowledge is given it has to be exercised. Otherwise, it will be easy to
forget.
I teach
kindergarten and I like to build relationships with the individual and their
parents. I let the student and parents know what the expectations are from the
beginning. I attack every new school year with the mindset that it my job to
figure out how each student learns best, then present the information in
various ways to give each of them the best opportunity for understanding. I equip
them with strategies and skills. By the second semester, I become more of a
facilitator and allow them to co-teach one another as I assist those who may
need additional guidance.
I require respect
from all involved parties; students, parents, colleagues and myself alike.
Students are expected to be active participants in all lessons in some way or
another. I also expect them to be able to apply what they have learned in order
to be successful at any task. The learner should responsible, behave sensibly
and make good decisions in accordance with their age.
In closing, my
philosophy is most like pragmatism because it best describes the necessity of
producing a balanced, well-informed learner.
