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EDU 1613

Writing Your Philosophy of Education

Your own philosophy of education is very important because it provides focus and emphasis for your teaching. Working to communicate your philosophy helps you to become aware of your teaching. Working to communicate your philosophy helps you to become aware of your own goals and values, which prepares you to integrate them with the goals and values espoused by your district and your community. 

Your statement of philosophy is a description of your own goals and beliefs as a teacher. There is no "right" philosophy. Some fit into certain settings better than others. You will refine, augment, and develop your philosophy for the rest of your career. Usually it is not successful to "change" your whole philosophy to meet the expectations of someone else. 

Below are guidelines to use to produce a well-written, focused, and articulate statement of your philosophy. 

Your philosophy should be no longer than two typed double-spaced pages. Somewhere in your statement of philosophy answer the following questions:

  • What is the purpose of education? (What goals do you want your students to achieve?)
  • What is the student's role? (What are students' responsibilities?)
  • What is the teacher's role? 
  • What is the home and school community connection?

This statement of philosophy should rely on your personal beliefs and experiences. Your philosophy will be influenced by the knowledge and experience you acquire as you proceed through your licensure/certification program. 

Required Topics To Be Covered

Purpose of Education

Student Role in Education

Teacher Role in Education

Home/School Community Connection