As time passes, society advances and new ideas form about schooling, and more specifically how we should educate children. There are many philosophies about how and what should be taught in public schools, with the most popular and well-known methods seeming outdated. As future teachers we must educate ourselves about the different teaching methods in order to provide a quality education that influences our students to engage in their learning.
Theories such as Perrenialism and Essentialism are known to be "teacher-centered" philosophies, and is used as the leading style in our current public education system. Although these theories are the most commonly utilized today and do assist in developing skills such as critical thinking within students, I don't necessarily view these as the most beneficial for learning. These philosophies leave little room for creativity or children's interests, and focus on insuring that students acquire a common core of knowledge in a systematic, disciplined way. I believe that when these methods are used we see more students disengage and feel as if the content doesn't apply to them, leading to poorer academic performance in the classroom.
"Student-centered" philosophies on the other hand, such as Progressivism, Multiculturalism, Constructivism, and Eclecticism, allow students to create their own meaning of things using their experiences and interests, and draws on different ideas and theories to gain insight about real world topics and issues. These tend to be lesser known and less exercised philosophies because they do not always have a strict set of "rules" or "guidelines" to follow, but in my opinion that means we can create our own values as a class, and draw from different sources of captivating information to develop basic skills like interpreting, analyzing, critical thinking, and problem solving. These methods influence schooling because it makes the learning experience enjoyable, which leads to the a domino effect of higher engagement, stronger teacher-student relationships, and an increase in academic performance.
Using a mix of these philosophies while taking what works best for your class into account can produce a superior education that influences children to enjoy their schooling experience and seek out learning.
Hi Madison!
ReplyDeleteI also believe that student centered teaching philosophies are more beneficial to children's understanding and application of educational material. While teacher centered methods have been "tried and true" for hundreds of years, it is not to say that these practices have been flawless. Much of the time, they deny students the opportunity to tune into their creativity and work through problems from unique points of view. True learning can only take place if a student is challenged to think outside of the box and draw upon a myriad of material processing tools. Since every human being is unique in their thought processes, it makes way more sense to diversify instruction in such a way that the needs of all students are identified and met. In allowing children to have more of a say in what and how they are learning, education becomes far more generally valued and positively regarded. The strict curricular limitations that have been in place throughout history have only served to limit the scope of student knowledge. By diversifying, changing, and adapting teaching methods to keep up with the times and studies that indicate a need for more student based philosophies, we may create a more competent and self confident group of future adults.
Hey Madison! This is an awesome post! I especially like your little image that you put with it to give a little example of each! I think it's great you want to do what's best for your students. We definitely seem to have pretty different beliefs, but your care for your students is what matters most! You're going to be a great teacher!
ReplyDeleteHi Madison, I agree that the most popular and well-known methods of teaching do seem outdated and that a change in methods and strategies are needed. Like you, I don't really agree with the teacher-centered methods of teaching and it's crazy that they are the most utilized ones still today. As you stated, they do teach critical thinking skills, but there are better methods that you could also use that entails the same skills and many other beneficial aspects. Student-centered strategies focus on giving students a voice to question and collaborate with their peers and teacher to find a common ground and reach a decision concerning classroom agenda/activities. This will enhance student engagement and increase focus as it will become more meaningful and beneficial to the student because of the fact that they had a say so in the decision. You will learn more about your students and the students will gain a better worldview from multiple perspectives.
ReplyDeleteHi Madison,
ReplyDeleteI agree that using a mix of philosophies in the classroom is the best way to reach and engage the students of tomorrow to ensure that they are receiving the highest level of education possible, and us as future educators are delivering the highest level of education possible. I have stated in a couple of other replies, but I believe that in a classroom setting it is possibly more beneficial to deliver instruction of harder subjects in a more stringent manner. Mathematics and chemistry don’t have a lot of wiggle room when it comes to the material, and I don’t think that letting a classroom full of chemistry students “figure it out” as they go with the teacher acting as a guide is a responsible way to deliver that information. With subjects such as philosophy, art, or physical education however, I believe that the possibilities of letting a more student oriented class is the correct approach.