Faculty of Education

Department of Education
Module - Elements of Education
UNIT 09 - Meaning of Philosophy

Introduction:

This provides a brief overview of the popular and academic definitions of philosophy.
Explain that philosophy involves the study of fundamental questions about meaning, truth,
and logical connections beyond empirical sciences. Highlight that philosophers investigate
various aspects of life, society, education, and science to gain clarity and order in thinking,
leading to consistent actions. Mention examples of philosophical problems such as the
meaning of life, the existence of God, and the goals of education.

After studying this unit you will be able to;

Define the meaning of philosophy in academic terms.
State the divisions of philosophy.
Explore the concept of educational philosophy.
Discuss the benefits of studying philosophy.
Explain why a teacher should play the role of a philosopher and how it can be done.
Engage in activities to develop philosophical skills.

What is the meaning of Philosophy in Education?

The term "philosophy" originates from the Greek words "philia," meaning love, and
"sophia," meaning wisdom. It denotes the pursuit of wisdom and encompasses a broad
range of perspectives and approaches. While the Greek understanding of philosophy as the
love of wisdom is widely accepted, there are additional definitions that complement rather
than contradict it.
Philosophy can be understood as a personal stance toward life and the universe. When
someone encounters an extraordinary experience, we often inquire, "How do they respond
to it?" or remark, "They respond philosophically." The mature philosophical attitude
embodies a search for truth and a critical mindset. It entails openness, tolerance, and a
willingness to consider all perspectives on a given issue. It does not shy away from grappling
with life's complex and unresolved problems. The meaning of philosophy in education refers
to the study and exploration of fundamental questions and principles related to education. It
involves examining the nature, purpose, and methods of education, as well as the underlying
beliefs and values that shape educational practices. Philosophy in education helps educators
and scholars to critically analyze educational theories, policies, and practices and to develop
a coherent and informed approach to education.

Define and explain the nature and scope of philosophy as an academic discipline.
Nature of Education: Philosophical inquiry in education seeks to understand the essence
and nature of education itself. It explores questions such as: What is the purpose of
education? What is the role of education in society? What is the relationship between
education and human development?
1. Educational Aims and Goals: Philosophy in education helps to clarify and define the
aims and goals of education. It involves reflecting on questions like: What
knowledge and skills should be prioritized in education? What values and virtues
should education promote? What kind of individuals do we want education to
produce?
2. Educational Methods and Approaches: Philosophical examination of education also
involves exploring different pedagogical methods and approaches. It considers
questions such as: What is the most effective way to facilitate learning? What is the
role of teachers and students in the educational process? What are the appropriate
assessment and evaluation methods?
3. Educational Ethics: Philosophy in education addresses ethical questions and
dilemmas in education. It involves exploring issues of fairness, justice, and equity in
educational practices. It considers questions like: What are the ethical
responsibilities of educators? How should education address social inequalities?
How can education promote ethical behavior and citizenship?
4. Epistemology and Learning Theory: Philosophy in education examines the nature of
knowledge and learning. It delves into questions such as: What is the nature of
knowledge? How do individuals acquire knowledge and learn? What are the
different theories of learning, and how do they inform educational practices?
5. Curriculum and Subject Matter: Philosophical inquiry in education also encompasses
the study of curriculum and subject matter. It involves reflecting on questions such
 as: What subjects and disciplines should be included in the curriculum? How should
the curriculum be structured and organized? How do cultural and societal factors
influence curriculum decisions?
Overall, philosophy in education provides a foundation for critical reflection and analysis of
educational theory and practice. It helps educators, policymakers, and scholars to
understand the underlying assumptions, values, and principles that shape education and to
make informed decisions that align with their educational goals and values.
The word Education' is derived from the Latin word as under:
Educatum: To train, Act of teaching or training
Educere: To lead out, To draw out
Educare: To bring up, To raise, To educate

How do Philosophers Find Truth?

State that philosophers seek truth through reasoning and logical analysis.
Emphasize that if a point can be proven through reasoning, it is considered true.
Differentiate between religious teachings based on faith and philosophy based on reasoning.

Divisions of Philosophy:
Explain the major divisions of philosophy:
Logic: Study of valid and invalid reasoning.
Ethics: Study of concepts and principles underlying human behavior evaluation.
Metaphysics: Study of the ultimate nature of reality.

Epistemology: Study of the origin, nature, and extent of knowledge.

Aesthetics: Study of principles underlying evaluation of art forms.
Political Philosophy: Study of fundamental principles of the state.
Philosophy of Religion: Study of the nature of religious beliefs.
Philosophy of Science: Study of methods, assumptions, and limits of scientific practice.
History of Philosophy: Study of the emergence, examination, and evolution of philosophical
ideas.
Philosophy of Life: Study of the meaning of life.
Philosophy of Education: Study of philosophical problems and issues in education.
What is Educational Philosophy?
Define educational philosophy as the study of philosophical problems and issues in
education.
Present examples of educational philosophical questions, such as the goals of education and
the nature of learning.
Discuss the importance of considering philosophical aspects in the field of education.

Benefits of Philosophy:
Outline the benefits of studying philosophy:
Understanding complex issues and finding answers.
Pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.
Providing insights and prompting critical thinking.
Encouraging reevaluation of positions in various spheres of life.
Increasing intellectual independence and tolerance for different viewpoints.

How Do Philosophical Skills Develop?

Explain the four psychological traits that cultivate philosophical skills:
Courage to examine cherished beliefs.
Willingness to hypothesize and react to philosophical claims.
Desire to search for truth.
Ability to think critically and improve existing ideas.

The Role of Teachers as Philosophers:

Discuss why teachers should play the role of philosophers:
Teachers can inspire critical thinking and exploration of fundamental questions.
Teachers can encourage philosophical discussions and provide a safe space for open
dialogue. Teachers can incorporate philosophical inquiry into their teaching methods and
curriculum.

Conclusion:
Recap the main points covered in the lesson, emphasizing the academic meaning of
philosophy and its various divisions. Highlight the benefits of studying philosophy and the
importance of philosophical skills. Emphasize the role of teachers as philosophers in
fostering critical thinking and intellectual development.
Reference:
No specific reference was provided in the notes. However, general knowledge about
philosophy and its divisions can be obtained from various philosophical texts, academic
journals, and online resources.

Question:
1. How is the academic meaning of philosophy different from the popular meaning?
Activity: In pairs or small groups, discuss and compare the popular and academic meanings
of philosophy. Share your findings with the class.

2. How do philosophers find truth?

Activity: Divide the class into small groups. Provide each group with a philosophical
statement or question (e.g., "Is there life after death?"). In their groups, students should
discuss and analyze the statement or question, using reasoning to determine their stance on
it. Each group can present their conclusions to the class.

3. What are the divisions of philosophy? Provide an example for each division.
Activity: Create a jigsaw activity where each student becomes an expert on one division of
philosophy. They research and prepare a short presentation explaining the division and
providing an example. Then, form new groups with one representative from each division,
and have students share their presentations and discuss the examples together.

4. What is the role of philosophy in education?

Activity: Conduct a class debate where students are divided into two teams, one arguing for
the integration of philosophy in education and the other arguing against it. Each team
should prepare arguments and evidence to support their stance. After the debate, facilitate
a class discussion to reflect on the different perspectives presented.

5. What are the benefits of studying philosophy?

Activity: Ask students to individually reflect on and write down three potential benefits of
studying philosophy. Then, divide them into pairs or small groups to discuss their ideas and
come up with a consolidated list of benefits. Have each group present their findings to the
class.
6. How can philosophical skills be developed?
Activity: Assign students a scenario or real-life issue and ask them to apply philosophical
skills, such as critical thinking, reasoning, and ethical considerations, to analyze the situation
and propose possible solutions. They can present their analysis and recommendations to the
class.

7. Why should teachers play the role of philosophers?

Activity: Have students work in small groups to brainstorm ways in which teachers can
incorporate philosophical inquiry into their teaching practices. Each group should create a
list of practical ideas and strategies. Reconvene as a class and share the group's suggestions,
discussing the feasibility and potential impact of each approach.