A statement of personal philosophy of education Is a reflective piece, generally 1-2 pages long that summarizes your core educational beliefs (your core beliefs about the purpose, process, nature, and ideals of education). Since the statement of philosophy also serves as a writing sample, it must demonstrate mastery of spelling, grammar and other rules of written English. (For the purposes of this course, your statement will be 2-3 pages long. A philosophy Is not a curriculum statement or a description of your teaching style. It is a statement about the beliefs and ideals that underlie your thinking. It is a set of beliefs that regulate your actions. Your philosophy of education statement should outline your set of beliefs about the purpose, process, nature, and ideals of public education. However. The concept “education” Is extremely complex. To begin with. Education entails a process as well as an achievement. It encompasses various notions about the learner and the role of the teacher.
And for different people It entails different ideas about the content to teach (knowledge, skills, and dispositions) and the meanings of teaching and learning. Therefore, at a minimum, your statement should clearly state your beliefs about 1. The true purpose of school. 2. The role of the teacher in learning. 3. How students best learn. 4. What it should be taught in school. In writing your statement, use your knowledge from other educational experiences (e. G. , methods classes, educational psychology, etc. ) to support your beliefs with theory and sound argument.
You are encouraged to use quotes by educational traders, curriculum theorists, and philosophers, who share your approaches and views toward education, teaching, and/or learning (but avoid any unnecessary jargon! ). In the introduction, “hook” the reader. Begin with a strong thesis statement & a brief preview of what you will be saying. Early in the statement state your area of expertise (e. G. , math teacher, elementary teacher, physical education teacher, special education teacher, etc. ). In the conclusion, revisit your thesis statement or story.
Reiterate and summarize the main points of your philosophy. A good concluding statement or quote Is necessary, If you want to “sell” your philosophy and made It memorable to the reader. Although you may not think, you have a philosophy of education, it’s there Just under the surface; unseen but affecting every decision you will make as a teacher. Do you see CNN learn as Llano slates on wanly to write, empty cups to Till, or names to De ignited? These tacit beliefs determine how you look at the amorphous thing we call “education.
