Educational Philosophy

Thus far, my personal philosophy does not fall under any one of the traditional ideologies introduced in class. At its core, my philosophy consists of four different parts. Broadly termed, one might ascribe them the names: essential topics, relation, discovery and creativity. This philosophy has developed from my own beliefs and limited experiences in education.

The first aspect is the idea that there are five topics that are essential for an extensive and complete education. Having been taught for over 2,500 years, math, science, history, philosophy and art have withstood the test of time. The five topics (among a few others) can be found in ancient Athens education system (Aristophanes, Sommerstein 2002). This is not to say that the core topics are not subject to change. If a valid need arises, change must take place. Our understanding of the world has yielded these five subjects from which all other intellectual pursuits arise. Math and science allow us to understand the physical nature of the world around us. History depicts past actions and choices, allowing us to analyze and replicate or avoid them. Philosophy helps us to understand human nature, while art allows us to express it. Included within art are music, literature, and art in its traditional meaning. This is similar to the Perennialist belief that certain knowledge is “classical” and will always be taught.

My belief in these topics comes from my own personal thoughts on what is important to investigate. As this is purely an opinion, I do not have any data backing me up. However, what I do have is personal experience. In elementary I was instructed in math, science, history, the arts and physical education. I never quite understood the importance o...

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...ess by which I visualize the connections between math and physics, and their impacts on the perceptible and imperceptible world. And, it is the process by which every great piece of music, literature, and art has come into fruition. Without creativity the world would be colorless. This is why it should be included as a core foundation in our educational system and philosophies.

The combination of these four aspects encompasses all that I believe in my educational ideology. Just as we do, it is bound to change over time. However, for now, it is a starting point for my foundation and beliefs as I pursue my career in education.

Bibliography

1. Aristophanes, and Alan H. Sommerstein. Lysistrata and Other Plays. London: Penguin, 2002. Print.

2. Ken Robinson, Out of Our Minds: Learning to be Creative. Wiley, 2011.

3. Denis Brian, Einstein: A Life. Wiley, 1930.