Personal Educational Philosophy

It is a critical question for me to define myself as a follower of a specific educational philosophy. I have not had the opportunity to work with children older than 4 years old, hence, what I will write right now may change the circumstances do as well. The perennialist philosophy is the farthest one I can relate to. Being so young, my students do not understand the scientific method and it is really hard at this time of their life to try to impose such way of learning. Most of them are at an early stage of developing their vocabulary; thus I have not had the occasion to try this philosophy. Needless to say, the experimentalist and pragmatist are beyond my students abilities at the moment. However, I do see myself so far as a teacher with not only one, but a collection of different philosophies and ideas. I am a little bit progressists because I enjoy involving my students in every lesson. It is important for me that they feel include, and I believe this is a crucial ingredient in the process of knowledge. I value their individuality, and if I see any special interest, even in just one, I try to incorporate it in the lesson. Nevertheless, I consider there are certain concepts that are fundamental for future knowledge and development of forthcoming abilities. I consider they need to recognize the alphabet in order for them to read and write; the numbers so they can develop abilities in mathematics, and vocabulary and phonics, so they can communicate better in writing and speech. This part of my philosophy is essentialist, since I judge these elements as vital part of imminent knowledge, and concept which will help them to success in the future. The part of me which relates to social reconstructivism is linked to manners. I encourage my students the use of words like thank you and please, but behind these words, there is a message of patient and courtesy. When they go home and apply those manners at the table, to talk to their parents, they are also inducing their parents to do so. If my students can go home and be patient and have some manners, I contemplate that as a small change in society, then is up to the parents to continue. As said before, I value each and every one of my students, and I respect their feelings and ideas. The development of self-confidence has a lot to do with existentialism, especially at this age. In summary, I do not have a specific educational philosophy, but I do take a little bit from each so my students can feel respected, and at the same time, they can enjoy the journey of learning.