Educational Philosophy
My educational philosophy is adhering to the constructivism principles espoused by Jean
Piaget. I am also a firm believer that students must assimilate taught content by creating
meaning based on personal experiences.
It is my opinion that a school must be a disciplined environment that facilitates the expression
of ideas and encourages students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and
their surroundings. I am of the view that a school where student participation is acknowledged
as being valid, and valuable encourages students to have greater respect for their teachers, their
peers, and the lessons being presented.
All subject areas are valuable to developing a well-rounded student. I believe subjects should
be taught will developing young adults that are ready for the opportunities and challenges that
will present itself in the ‘real-world’. The delivery of subject content should not merely be for
the preparation of examinations.
There is no one way in which students should learned, this is evident from the three
foundational learning theories. Piaget opines that students learning when they create
knowledge through interaction with information, and this knowledge can be developed further
by interacting subject matter expert(specialists) who pushes the students out of their knowledge
base comfort zone (Vygotsky).
Because I believe the main purpose of education should be to go beyond the transference of
knowledge to preparation for society outside of the school environment, my lesson designs
incorporate simulation activities like the $20 Challenge, from the classroom to boardroom, and
short-term internships. I fundamentally agree with the intent behind SBA project it should be
done in conjunction with a simulated activity.
Which of the two views posited fits into your philosophy? Write a short note (100 words) explaining
your choice and give a reason. Share in the Discussion Forum.
My educational philosophy aligned with Phenix view that no one curriculum will suffice for everyone.
We are all different people and our interactions with curriculum content will vary. It is my opinion, as
a student-teacher and teacher, that meaningful development occurs when the curriculum is narrow and
logically sequenced. This provides continuity and connections can be easily made to content previously
covered which lays the foundation for educational success. Thus, a curriculum that makes the learning
experiences available to the learner when they are ready to receive and apply it to their real-life
circumstances assists students accomplish their educational goals, master educational objectives, and
make deeper connections with the curriculum content.
Two Instructional techniques I have learnt in this course are: Differentiated Instruction and Universal
Design for Learning (UDL).
One differentiated instruction strategy I employ is reflection and goal setting. At the beginning of a new
topic each student would write their personal learning outcome and at the end of each session they
would reflect on their individual progress. They also have the option to share with the class so that they
collaboratively keep each other accountable.
Additionally, I use some aspects UDL in my lesson because each student has an individual method of
expression. After being introduced to the flipped class strategy I use it mostly with my fourth form, the
are given lower order taxonomy activities to complete on their own. These tasks form the basis for
synchronous lessons.