Running head: PHILOSOPHY 1

Philosophy of Education

Mayson Odom

Paris Junior College

EDUC 1301.200

Dr. Marian Ellis

March 28, 2021

PHILOSOPHY 2

Philosophy of Education

While growing up, I went to a public school including many kids, with many different

learning styles. My teachers all went by the books; we were to stay at our desks, take notes, and

follow along. I quickly realized this type of learning was not the correct style for me and I was

struggling to retain any information I had learned. I then had a teacher that taught a completely

different way, instead of staying at our desks and following along, we were up and around the

classroom bouncing ideas off of other students. I believe this type of teaching allows the student

to take a step away from the desk and open their mind to new ways of learning.

I believe that student centered philosophies allow the student to become more intune with

their own learning habits and allow the mind to think more creatively. When implemented,

students work in groups and become more hands-on. Not only is it more fun, but they are also

using sensory skills, which increases better memory of the lesson learned. I am a true believer in

the philosophy of John Dewey, he believed that learning is by doing. When students take a field

trip to learn of a subject, they get to experience first hand what is being taught. The students are

learning by doing. I believe this helps students be able to form more meaningful questions about

life; this can always be of good use.

I believe that teacher centered philosophies are great for the students that enjoy reading

and writing, but this type of learning is not for everyone. When students are to read the “Great

Books” there are substantial lessons that can be learned. However, I feel you cannot force these

books on a student. Instead, they need to be read when the student is mentally mature enough to

understand. I believe it is important for students to learn the core curriculum but it is not essential

for the student to succeed.

PHILOSOPHY 3

In the classroom, the environment plays a huge role. This can affect how students learn

and connect with others in the classroom. I believe by allowing the students to voice their own

opinion on how they think the classroom is to be arranged; the students feel more safe and enjoy

learning a bit more. I want this choice to let children know that what they say matters and can

have an effect in the world around them. I would like to implement the environment to have a

presence of equality and a positive attitude, this will ensure the classroom functions with less

stereotypes/prejudice among students.

When it comes to testing and assessments of students I do not believe that one test or

assessment defines how smart a student is or how much information they have learned in class.

Within the first week of class I plan on having the students take a test that will decipher how they

learn best. This way I can ensure that students are getting the best learning experience possible.

Tests are required almost everywhere in life and I think if a student knows which learning style

is best for them they will benefit tremendously in the future.

In the classroom I plan to execute the philosophy of John Dewy. I want to include small

group activities and class discussions in as many lessons I can. I would love to give students the

experience and space to let their creativity flow in the act of doing something. I plan on creating

a safe space for children and to let it be known that we are all human, we all make mistakes, and

we are all equal.