Running head: PHILOSOPHY 1

Philosophy of Education

Kaylee Forsyth

Paris Junior College

EDUC 1301.200

Dr. Marian Ellis, Instructor

September 30, 2018

PHILOSOPHY 2

Out of all five philosophies, there is no right or wrong one. Each philosophy is just a

distinct way of focusing on one method of teaching. When I was in elementary school my

favorite days were the ones where we took a field trip to the nearest museum, park, planetarium,

or whichever other “educational” center we decided to go to for the day. I loved getting to have a

hands-on approach to learn about the specific topic we were on. I think because of my personal

experience, it has persuaded me to relate more towards John Dewey’s philosophy, Progressivism.

The student-centered philosophy, Progressivism, focuses on learning based upon the

experiences of students. Therefore, this includes activities such as field trips, hands-on games,

and group learning. In addition to the textbook, I believe “doing” and “seeing” is the most

influential way for an elementary student to learn. Many students in that age group get bored

very easily with paper work or being stuck in a chair for multiple hours out of the day. They need

to find activities that allow them to personally analyze a situation or be able to problem solve

using their own abilities. I believe Progressivism helps the student to develop social skills and

allows them to communicate their thoughts while being aware of others’ viewpoints.

Once I become a teacher, my classroom will be full of activities for every learning style. I

want my students to learn that in the society we have today it is especially important to be open-

minded. It is essential to be aware of different social views, genders, race, religion, and many

other factors. The world we live in is not monochromatic, it is diverse in more than one aspect. I

want my students to be able to learn alongside of their classmates using personal experience,

learning styles that are fit to each person individually, group projects, and hands-on work. My

hope is that through their learning, they will be able to not only apply their knowledge in the

classroom setting, but in their own lives and in real world situations. In addition, I expect my
PHILOSOPHY 3

classroom to be a welcoming environment. One that makes the students feel safe, and free to

express themselves.

To conclude, I believe Progressivism is one of the best methods of learning and allows

the students to not just focus on paper and pen work, but focus on using their earlier and new

knowledge to apply themselves to real experiences. Interaction between the students and myself,

and between each peer, will allow the students to be flexible to more than once way of

deciphering a situation; resulting in the goal of having every student be able to grow up and

adapt to an always changing world.