PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

Personal Philosophy of Education Reflection

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Through self-assessment of various educational philosophies, I identified most strongly with Existentialism. I deeply value the importance of individuality and the emotional commitment to living authentically. I resonate with Sartre’s philosophy that “existence precedes essence”, believing that we define ourselves through the choices we make. In the classroom, this translates to empowering students to take ownership of their learning and to develop a strong sense of self through meaningful decision-making.

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My second highest alignment was with Progressivism, a philosophy that emphasizes a student-centered approach. During my classroom observations, I consistently noted that environments where students were actively involved in their learning had fewer behavioral issues. Teachers who displayed passion and enthusiasm created an atmosphere where students were motivated to participate, explore, and think critically. I strive to cultivate this kind of learning environment—one that promotes curiosity, collaboration, and student-led discovery.

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Lastly, I aligned with Perennialism, which holds that "human beings are rational." While I support this view, I also acknowledge that many students face external challenges that disrupt rational thinking. As educators, it is our responsibility to model stability, emotional regulation, and thoughtful behavior. By doing so, we can help students develop these essential skills, even in the midst of external chaos.

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These philosophies collectively shape my vision as an educator. I aim to create a classroom where students feel valued as individuals, are engaged in the learning process, and are guided by strong, supportive role models.