PHILOSOPHY OF PHILIPPINE EDUCATION

KENETH S. TOLENTINO

Education in the Philippines is considered to be vital for everyone and an avenue to propelling in life. Hence, educators and the government continuously improving the education system by implementing programs, reforms and policies. These recalibrations and conduct of different educational endeavors are based on the philosophies of both western and eastern influence. Philosophies of educations are spring board on what education system, culture and organization must be present in a particular setting which is primarily based on the needs, interest, demand of the industry and society as well as the relation of culture.

Philosophical foundations of educations deeply rooted on western philosophy, as it is defined as the love of wisdom which came from the word “philo” means love and “Sophia”means wisdom. Some of these philosophies includes idealism which usually practice by newly graduates on education who practice the cognitive and value-laden standards of education. Realism wherein it is more likely applicable in mathematics and science, realist educators uphold the practice of to see is to believe. Essentialism, educators nurturing the learners what he/she sees essential to the needs and skills of learners. Perennialism whereas truth is seen as universal and unchanging. In progressivism philosophy teacher act as the facilitator of learning which is now transpired in the present curriculum of the country, breaking the initial role of teacher as knowledge generator in the classroom. Reconstructivism value the role of teacher in social reform wherein the school considered as transformative agent on changing the mindset and perceptions of students in particular matter. Existensialism refers to the thinking about life and valuing the true existence of life. These philosophies of education help in the shaping of the present status of education wherein what is suitable to particular setting can be applied based on the status quo of education set up.

Historically, education rooted for man’s quest for knowledge and understanding his environment where he belongs, exploring skills and talents as well as the curiosity of minds. In the primitive period people already have ways of acquiring knowledge in an informal way and develop it formally by practicing standard procedures, guided philosophies and written documents. Education is truly an essential tool in changing the landscape of a particular place, culture and people as it provide logical and standards practices in order to direct individuals to what is good, right and essential to him and his society. Philosophies and psychology of education are springboard in crafting and providing better and good education as they are based purposively on the needs of the society and interest of every individual.

-oOo

The author is Teacher

III at Planas High School