The Influence of Philosophy on a Teacher’s Knowledge and Teaching Practices
Introduction:
As a student of philosophy for 20 years and a teacher for 10 years, I firmly believe that the study of philosophy has profoundly influenced my approach to teaching and the knowledge I impart. This essay explores how philosophical teachings have shaped my pedagogical methods and contributed to a more holistic approach to education. Through hands-on experiences, I illustrate the benefits of integrating diverse disciplines into my curriculum and the transformative impact of philosophical thought on both the student and teacher.
Philosophical Philosophy in Teaching
The essence of philosophy is its ability to take abstract concepts and make them concrete. For example, by dissecting the complex theories of existentialism, one might initially perceive them as merely academic musings. However, philosophical principles can be applied to everyday life, providing a framework for understanding existence, reality, and personal growth. This ability to bridge the gap between conceptual and practical knowledge is crucial in my role as a teacher.
For instance, in a class recently, I assembled students with diverse backgrounds and occupations. This included someone who was once a part of an opera company, another who had experience in multinational corporations, and a secretary from a large financial firm. Recognizing the value of holistic learning, I encouraged students to draw connections between philosophical ideas and their professional lives. This not only engaged the students but also fostered a deeper understanding of the material.
The Role of Holistic Learning in the Classroom
My approach to teaching is heavily influenced by the principle of holistic learning. Core subjects such as science, mathematics, history, geography, and politics are interlinked. When teaching mature students at the undergraduate level, this interconnectedness becomes particularly valuable. These adults often come from varied backgrounds, each with their unique perspective and approach to the world. By encouraging students to see the interconnectedness of different fields of study, I help them form a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
In this particular class, I asked students to reflect on how the week's philosophical principles related to their professional fields. This exercise not only enhanced their learning experience but also demonstrated the real-world applications of philosophical concepts. For example, a student from the finance sector could relate the concept of existence to his daily work on financial reports, while someone from the corporate world might see the relevance of reality in business strategies.
The Value of Philosophy in Teacher Education
Despite its significance, philosophy does not always receive the attention it deserves in teacher education curricula. Sadly, many academic programs include subjects that are considered useless and irrelevant to teaching practice. For some, these include poetry appreciation for mathematics teachers, computer science for history teachers, and so on. The gap between what is taught and what is needed in the classroom is often stark.
As part of an incomplete master's degree, I conducted a survey comparing the subjects student teachers favored with those recommended by practicing teachers and academics. It was striking that the top five most valued subjects by practicing teachers were overshadowed by five subjects deemed essential by academics. Academics prioritized traditional teaching skills such as timetabling, marking, and classroom management, while practicing teachers sought more philosophical insights to guide their pedagogy.
The survey results underscore the importance of revisiting the teacher education curriculum to better align with the practical needs of the classroom. Integrating more philosophy into teacher education can provide future educators with a broader perspective, enabling them to approach their roles with a more nuanced and holistic understanding of the educational landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study of philosophy has profoundly impacted my teaching practices by fostering a more holistic and interconnected understanding of the subjects I teach. By encouraging students to apply philosophical principles to their professional lives, I enhance their learning experience and provide them with valuable tools for personal and professional growth. It is time for teacher education programs to recognize the value of philosophy and its role in shaping effective educators.