Earlier this year, Teaching School trainees engaged in a workshop at our INSIGHT Sessions on educational philosophy facilitated by David Cole, Assistant Principal of Teaching and Learning at St Philip's Christian College Cessnock. Trainees were challenged to consider a variety of views on the purposes of education and begin formation of their own educational philosophy.
Why Philosophy?
Cole began the workshop by highlighting the universities' increasing emphasis on classroom practice and the pursuit of excellence within teacher training. Yet, many such institutions are failing to explore the question of "Why educate?" This is problematic as without a personal understanding behind the purposes of education, a teacher is liable to aimlessly transfer shallow knowledge unto their students.
What Purpose?
Cole then exhorted trainees to consider education as having many purposes. Teaching School trainees brainstormed such purposes as "To develop character," "To promote valuable ideas and knowledge," and "To prepare students for adulthood." Cole affirmed these purposes. He then promoted the dualistic educational purpose asserted by Stephen Kemmis: to form persons and to form communities.
Traditionalist or Progressive?
Cole finalised the workshop by exploring the ideas of traditionalist and progressive educational philosophy. Traditionalist philosophies emphasise child formation, standardised curriculums, and discipline. Meanwhile progressive philosophies promote the significance of positive environments, differentiation, and discovery learning. Both philosophical categories in practice have a range of benefits and deficits.
Overall, Cole's workshop encouraged Teaching School students not to conform to pre-set philosophical criteria, instead evaluating each idea by its own merit. Thus, teachers may form a personalised and impassioned purpose for their role as an educator. A purpose which informs each pedagogical decision and teacher-student relationship.
What are St Philip's Teaching School INSIGHT Sessions?
INSIGHT sessions at the St Philip's Teaching School are bespoke offerings that supplement regular lectures. Often delivered by members of the St Philip's Christian Education staff and our affiliate school community; these sessions address important topics and issues that teachers face today. INSIGHT sessions create a safe space for St Philip's Teaching School trainees to collaborate both online and in person.
