EXISTENTIALISM IN EDUCATION

Joice L. Yumul

Existentialism is defined as the title of the set of philosophical ideals that emphasize the existence of the human being, the lack of meaning and purpose in life, and the solitude of human existence. As Jean Paul Sartre’s quote “We exist first and then we need to create our own being.” Thus, existentialism enables us explore our real essence or purpose in life; why we are existing and allows us to freely make our own choices.

Based from an essay posted on yourarticlelibrary.com, education, in a broader sense, is that which helps an individual to realize the best. Existentialists do not believe in prescribing a rigid curriculum. The child must choose his own curriculum according to his needs, abilities, aspirations, interests and stations of life. The teacher is considered as an important base of the educational spectrum who creates an appropriate educational situation in which the student can establish link with himself by becoming conscious of his ‘self and can achieve self-realization.

(https://www.yourarticlelibrary.com/essay/essay-on-existentialism/76801)

Existentialism in Education is learner – centered where it allows the learner to grow and succeed in his chosen curriculum. For a learner to succeed, educators should assist and guide the learner in the process of becoming acquiring skills and competencies and be responsible in decision making. Kneller comments, “If there is anything that the existentialist teacher can do for his students, it is to bring them to a more critical analysis and understanding of the meaning and purpose of existence, so that with time men may become more than a mere repetitive creature perpetuating the bestial habits of his simian ancestors.”

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The author is Teacher I at Benigno S. Aquino NHS, SDO Tarlac Province