Bicol University

GRADUATE SCHOOL
Legazpi, City

Name: Ma. Sharlyn A. Navia

Subject: PHDEF-305 Seminar in Sociological and Anthropological Theories
Program: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management
Professor: Dr. Noel R. Rafer
Session Topic: Historical Sketches of Sociological Theory & Theorists and Development of Sociology in
the Philippines (Part 2)

REFLECTION JOURNAL 4
1) K – your prior K-nowledge of the topic
Understanding the history of sociological theories, especially theorists and the evolution of sociology
in the Philippines, has always been a challenge for me. I was aware of the well-known names Karl Marx
and other sociological theorists, but it is difficult for me to relate their various concepts and apply their
theories in educating my students.
2) W – hat you expected to learn from the topic
The continuation of the historical development of sociology and anthropology makes me even more
interested to study why sociological theories are still relevant now and how we may use them to understand
social realities and the complexity of human beings. After learning about the many perspectives of
sociological theorists in Part 1, I am eager to explore the theories of Karl Marx, George Simmel, Edward
Burnett Tylor, and other sociological theorists. I'm looking forward to thoroughly grasping the theories and
knowing how to apply them in the classroom.
3) L- what you L-earned from the topic/discussion/webinar, and
The discussion made me realize that sociological theorists are like talking to each other, and all of
their theories are partly related. By turning to Karl Marx's theories, we may be able to comprehend where
Max Weber is coming from. While Marx sought a revolution, Weber was willing to investigate the causes of
capitalism's development. Both saw society headed in an unfavorable path for the people, but while Weber
saw no way out, Marx was certain that things would have to change. Despite this, Marx and Weber
approach capitalism in quite different ways. Both thinkers agree that capitalism harms human civilization.
Their future visions, however, are radically different. Marx advocates revolution and transformation, but
Weber does not embrace his hope. Capitalism is rooted in irrationality according to Marx, yet it is a mirror of
rationality according to Weber.
4) A – how are you going to A-pply it to your personal/professional life.
To establish effective education systems and learning environments, all stakeholders must work
together in a meaningful way, through collaboration and, as a result, connection. And effective collaboration
across all stakeholders needs both effective listening skills and active action. As an aspiring education
administrator, I believe that dealing with people who have diverse viewpoints and attitudes is challenging,
but it is a great fulfillment for a leader in maintaining harmony and teamwork in the school despite these
disparities. I constantly keep in mind that changes and conflicts are opportunities to grow and learn new
things from experience and other people.
As an educator, I have a significant responsibility for the growth of our country's education system,
which is why I always make sure that I am still relevant and successful despite our society's changing
needs. Being a teacher encourages me to become a more engaged learner. With the evolution of our
society, I am constantly pushing myself to have a plethora of wisdom on how to improve my teaching
practice on a daily basis. I know that sociological theories can assist me to understand the complexities of
our society and the behavior of my students. As a secondary school teacher, I feel it is vital to empower
myself by investing in the necessary skill development and capacity building to fully hone my potential in
teaching via remote and blended learning.