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What is Philosophy?

The word Philosophy has been derived from two Greek words “philos” which means “love” and “Sophia”  which means “wisdom”. Thus, Philosophy means love of wisdom (Johnson et. al., 2011). Philosophy means love for knowledge or passion for learning. Education is a purposeful activity directed at achieving certain aims, such as transmitting knowledge or  fostering skills and character traits. Education is basically the transfer of knowledge from one person to another formally, semi-formally, or  informally. Education provides the way for knowledge to be transmitted from an individual to another or  group or even a generation. 

The 4 Pillars of Education by UNESCO 

1. Learning to know: It involves the development of knowledge and skills that are needed to function in the  world. These skills include Literacy, Numeracy, and Critical thinking. 

2. Learning to Live Together: It involves the development of social skills and values such as respect and  concern for others, social and interpersonal skills, and an appreciation of the diversity of the world. 

3. Learning to do: It describes putting knowledge and learning into practice innovatively through skill  development, practical know-how, life skills, personal qualities, and attitudes. 

4. Learning to be: Relates to self-management life skills related to self-awareness, self-esteem, self-confidence, and coping skills. It is for holistic development it is a guide for you to be a better version of yourself. 

What is Educational Philosophy? 

A set of values and beliefs about education that guide the professional behaviour of educators. What is the purpose of education? The main purpose of education is the integral development of a person. 

Educational Philosophy : It may be defined as the application of the fundamental principles of a philosophy of life to the work of  education. 

It offers definite aims and definite objectives. An aim is what you hope to achieve in broad terms,  while an objective is an action(s) you will take to achieve the aim. Education without philosophy is blind and philosophy without education is invalid. 

What is the Aim of Philosophy of Education?

The main purpose of education is the all round development of a person. All round development consists of all the aspects – physical, mental, moral, social, emotional and spiritual. 

Functions of educational philosophy 

Determining the aspects of education: 

1. Aims of education 

2. Curriculum 

3. Methods of teaching 

4. Discipline 

5. Administration 

1.   Aims of Education 

In the words of Aristotle, "Every art does something good. Education is an art. It is to be seen what good is done  by education to man and society".

Example: If we think about the conditions of society during the time of independence Do we think the aims and  objectives of education be similar to our present ones? Aims and objectives change with the influence of time and  according to the needs of individual and society. 

Life skills 

2.   Curriculum

 Design according to the needs of the learner A philosophy is often defined as the foundation upon which knowledge is based Example: last Thursday when we sit down for a short meeting. We discuss and do feel that the students need to  brush up on their general knowledge. 

3.   Methods of Teaching 

Example 1: Tree 

Example 2: School motto: A short sentence or phrase chosen as enclosing the beliefs or ideals of an individual,  family, or institution in conform with school motto The methods of teaching according to the nature of the subject and school environment must be different. 

4.   Discipline 

Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment. 

Discipline is the required action by a teacher toward a student (or group of students), after the student’s  behaviour disrupts the ongoing educational activity or breaks a pre-established rule created by the teacher,  the school administration or the general society. 

Why do we need to discipline? The purpose is that they can learn how to take care of themselves, other  people and the world around them. 

Discipline is an art that requires knowledge, skill, sensitivity, and self-confidence. 

5.   Administration 

The knowledge of what kind of administration we should adopt for an educational institute is determined by educational philosophy. 

Harmonizing old and new traditions in the field of education

There existed group schools which were mostly for boys. By law, all children are expected to attend school, be it  in villages or cities alike. Basic education has been made free and compulsory. 

In traditional education, a teacher passes on values, skills, manners, and social practices from their  generation to the next generation. The aim is to ensure the survival of the future generation. 

Education mostly revolves around traditions and customs. It is usually done through oral recitation  and involves very little written or practical work. 

The students will listen to the recitation and by-heart it. They might have to pass through a not-so-formal oral exam. 

Modern education is in an entirely other direction. It is a scientific method and is the form of  education imparted in schools today. 

It teaches a student the basic skills required to survive in the modern world of science and technology.  This system involves listening, writing, speaking, imagining, visualizing, and problem-solving skills. the modern education system has evolved from the traditional oral education system. 

The process of replacement of old tradition with new tradition is not always smooth. It must be kept  in mind that every “old” is not outdated and every “new” is not perfect. There is a need of coordinating  the two. 

Preparing the younger generation to face the challenges of the modern time.

Society is not static it changes its value, tradition, custom, culture etc, from time to time. with the  help of philosophy of education as a steering force we can guide and liberate force that helps  young people and society at large to face the challenges of the modern time.