In not more than 500 words, reflect on the topics you have covered in the

course. You may take ONE(1) or TWO(2) topics and examine them deeply, or
more topics examined in less detail. Topics reflected upon may include any
information covered in class or in the reading from the course. Writing should
use formal language and correct spelling and punctuation.

When writing, consider the following:

· What have you studied that is interesting?

· What new things have you learned?

· How has your learning affected preconceptions or misconceptions you

brought with you into class?

· Will what you have learned change your behaviour in the future?

Education field is evolving rapidly and teachers need to keep up with the changes and trends of the
education system in order to ensure students experience the best education. One of the ways to fulfil
the standard is by becoming well-versed in the philosophy of education. Comprehending the history
and theories related to education allow teachers to gain new insights and understanding towards
their role and how it gives impacts on students. By allowing oneself to explore those philosophies, it
enables teachers to develop their style of teaching which indirectly help in supporting learners’
needs. Based on my perspective, I think Philosophies of Education which have been covered in Topic
2 has attracted me to have in-depth exploration about each philosophy. There are seven types of
philosophies that learners had been exposed to and in my opinion, the two most interesting
philosophies that I feel useful and valuable to be used in my classroom are Pragmatism and
Progressivism.

Reading through the notes and having some research on the internet, I found Pragmatism values
problem solving and encourage the use of the right skills in helping learners to solve the problems.
For instance, I may use this philosophy to help learners to improve their skills in speaking once I see
their weaknesses and difficulties that they faced. Apart from that, this philosophy is also useful as
teachers focus on the group rather that individual students. Thus, it helps learners to develop their
characters such as responsible and independent towards their own learning and group development.
Moreover, using technology in the classroom will help to enhance their active participation and
understanding in a positive learning environment. It may be one of the ways to promote friendship
among learners when working together. Furthermore, group projects will enable learners to apply
the skills in real life situations.

Progressivism is a continuation of Pragmatism and it highlights the importance of student-centred,

progress and changes which are fundamental for individual’s growth and development in education.
Students will be able to learn efficiently when the topics are close to their heart, interests,
experiences, and abilities. Additionally, Progressivism also incorporate active learning that support
learners to be critical thinkers, problem solvers and active learners. Education should revolve around
students rather than relying on teachers’ content per se so learners learn by doing. Additionally, I
also realize this philosophy also value group activity which promote learners’ cooperation in solving
the problem or completing a task. Learners’ experience may also help them to complete the task
with ease. Some examples of activities that I find interesting which relates to this philosophy are field
trip and thought-provoking games and puzzles. Having a field trip will attract unprivileged learners to
be interested in certain topics as they are given the opportunity to explore other places and
experience real life knowledge such as going to a supermarket, going to the zoo or sharing their
experience when visiting specific places.

In conclusion, I think learning will become more effective when teacher becomes facilitator and a
guidance, learners are exposed to various hands-on activities and they are given opportunities to
practice the skills and the knowledge not only in the classroom but also in real life situations. Every
individual is unique and has different learning abilities and interest so, my role as a teacher is to
assist them and develop their ability and potential in education. Additionally, it will also help me to
adapt and adopt good teaching strategies based on students’ needs.