My Philosophy of Education

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My Philosophy of Education "I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. Give them a sense of pride...These lyrics from "The Greatest Love of All" sung by Whitney Houston more than 15 years ago have become almost trite. However, in simplified terms those lyrics sum up my philosophical attitude toward teaching and clarify for me why I want to teach, specifically elementary education. The future of any generation belongs to the children of that generation. The present is all we have to assist the decision makers of tomorrow how to shoulder that responsibility with earnestness, wonderment, and a sense of pride. I think of social reconstructionism when I think of all the ways in which society could become more equitable and the ways in which early childhood education could positively effect that change. But I would not say that I am a social reconstructionist. The overwhelming task of shifting societies prejudices cannot be achieved in one classroom during one school year. However a seed of toleration and understanding can be planted and as a teacher I would emphasize critical thought and it's use in providing solutions for what appears unjust. "Teach them well and let them lead the way." As a partial progressivist and a smidgeon existentialist, I admittedly believe that the best environment in which a child can learn and retain information is one in which autono...

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