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Philosophy
of
Education
By
(PISMP TESL SK)


Educational Philosophy?
A personal statement of a teacher's
guiding principles about "big picture"
education-related issues
Eg. how student learning and potential
are most effectively maximized, as well
as the role of educators in the
classroom, school, community, and
society
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4 General Philosophies
Roots in Educational Philosophies
Idealism
Asserts that because the physical world is always
changing, ideas are the only reliable form of reality
Realism
The features of the universe exist whether or not a
human being is there to perceive them.
Pragmatism
Rejects the idea of absolute, unchanging truth, instead
asserting that truth is what works
Existentialism
humanity isnt part of an orderly universe; rather
individuals create their own realities.

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Basic Philosophies of Education
Perennialism
- Suggests that nature is constant.
- Roots in both Idealism and Realism
- Rigorous intellectual curriculum for all students,
classic works
Essentialism
- Critical core of knowledge and skills
- Roots in Idealism and Realism
- Back to basics movements
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Behaviorism
- only focuses on objectively observable
behaviors and discounts mental activities
- Used by teachers when they reward
(reinforce) or punish behaviors
Progressivism
- Focus on real-world problem solving
and individual development
- Roots in Pragmatism

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Existentialism
- Focuses on the existence of the individual
and individual responsibility
- Goal is to awaken human consciousness
Postmodernism (Critical Theory)
- Says many of the institutions in our society,
including schools, are used by those in power
to marginalize those who lack power
- Criticized for using schools for political
purposes

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