INTRODUCTION

One of the difficult subjects that you will encounter in the graduate program

major in educational administration is the Philosophy of Education. A lot of students

even after finishing the subject are still not 100 percent knowledgeable about it. Having

too many philosophical beliefs just make it more difficult to comprehend.

Now, is this subject really that important especially for educators or

administrators? Do we really need to study this one? Will it even matter if we become

very knowledgeable about it? Broadly speaking, my answer will be yes. This does not

only pertain to educators but to other profession as well especially if you are an

administrators or having an employees to manage.

A philosophy of education is a statement (or set of statements) that identifies

and clarifies the beliefs, values and understandings of an individual or group with

respect to education. Defined in this sense, it may be thought of as a more-or-less

organised body of knowledge and opinion on education, both as it is conceptualised and

as it is practiced.

A philosophy of this sort is critical in defining and directing the purposes,

objectives and focus of a school. It should also serve to inspire and direct educational

planning, programs and processes in any given setting.

A philosophy of education may influence what subjects or topics are taught, how

they are taught, and perhaps more importantly, the supporting beliefs and values that

are taught, both implicitly and explicitly, within and around the core curriculum.

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  Broadly, the purpose of education may be defined as preparing students for life

in the world. One may well ask: What kind of life? Which world? To achieve what ends?

To live, love and serve whom?

Lastly, a good holistic education may include studies in experiences relevant to

personal, intellectual, social, physical and spiritual development; work, vocation and

employment; citizenship and community involvement; and creativity, aesthetic

appreciation and cultural awareness.

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