01-15-09

Determine and reflect on your philosophical beliefs by taking the Philosophical Survey. Reflect on the survey's validity.

I took the philosophical survey and scored high in Progressivism and Existentialism. After reading the brief explanation of both philosophies I decided that the survey was accurate. The reason for this is that I have taken multiple surveys regarding educational philosophy and most often I score highest in Progressivism.
Progressivists believe that the student is more important that content material. I agree with this because unless you understand the student you cannot tailor the curriculum for maximum learning. They also believe that students should reflect on their experiences. I think this is essential for learning, because most often we learn from the mistakes we have made. Thus, it is very important for students and teachers to reflect on prior experiences. Progressivists also say that change and new ideas are important, this is true. How can things get better unless change occurs?
Existentialism is the philosophy that stresses the individual and emotional commitment to living authentically. I am an Existentialist in part, because I feel that students need to make decisions and choices. This will help them to define who they are. Finding out who you are leads you to finding out where you want to go in life. When students accomplish this they can reach their goals and better contribute to society.
Overall my educational philosophy is formed by taking parts of all different philosophies. Curriculum and academics are important, but what is more important are the students themselves.