The educational philosophy statement has become a staple in every educator’s teaching portfolio. An elementary teaching philosophy statement captures a teacher’s reasons for teaching, what methods he or she plans to use and examples of any teaching experience. A teacher has the chance to impact students’ lives in a constructive manner; this is a huge opportunity that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
As a teacher, we must hunt for an environment that encourages curiosity and complete determination. Our classroom is a place where students feel important, respected, cared for and believed in. A teacher must make it feasible for her students to reach their prospective, ask questions, learn from their mistakes, give and receive feedback and try their best.
Hence, philosophy of education is important because it explains how educational theories come up. Philosophical knowledge may give an explanation for teaching methodologies; reveal and challenge assumptions about the nature of teaching; and provide a language for educational debate.
Two types of philosophy that have a great impact on elementary education are:-
Play Based Philosophy — Playing to Learn/Learning to Play
Highly value early childhood programs teach children to think creatively so they may succeed in a difficult and ever-changing world. It emphasizes the importance of play in a child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. Play is a way where children learn the most. In a typical preschool day, children learn at their pace, through structured and unstructured period.
Values that support learning through play include:
Children are viewed as thinkers, reflecting about their world
Purposeful play is when children learn through the process of their efforts
Children gain knowledge by building on a path of ever increasing knowledge
Children are encouraged to make choices and practice individual decision-making
Cognitive Based Philosophy
A program which is based on cognitive abilities: young children get the opportunity to learn through active exploration in an environment which is rich in materials and also gives opportunities to communicate, socialize, work, play and discuss with others. The classrooms are designed well to encourage curiosity, exploration and problem solving in an ambience of warmth and respect for each child. Children may work individually or collaboratively, and may choose whether or not to participate in a project. All aspects of growth and development of a child are considered — intellectual, social, emotional, physical and creative.
