ASSIGNMENT No.

Roll No 0000241031

Programme B.Ed (1.5 Year)

Course Code 8609

Course Tittle Philosophy of Education

Assignment No 1

Semester Spring, 2023

Submitted by Abdul Wajid

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Q.1How does philosophy influences a teacher’s knowledge and teaching
practices?
Philosophy has a great influence on the teacher both in the area of thinking
and behaving. Really speaking, a teacher is not a teacher alone. He is a
philosopher also. In other words, a teacher himself has a philosophy of his
own and he influences children accordingly. As such, his philosophy of
life should be such which develops the individuality of children to the
fullest extent. For this, the teacher should know full well the needs of
children and the demands of society and then plan his methods of teaching.
He must keep in mind that his own beliefs, ideology and principles of
behaviour have a powerful impact on the development of children. Hence,
he must possess a good understanding of all the philosophies of life and
choose good and wholesome elements from them to form his own
philosophy.

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Further, he must beam an imbued with high ideals and possess moral and
spiritual values which go to form his character and shape his conduct. He
must also be well-conscious of national needs in all spheres and plan his
teaching activities to fulfill those needs. Only such teachers imbued with
high ideals, moral and spiritual values together with a sense of national
responsibility for national prosperity and honour can create patriotic,
dynamic, resourceful and enterprising citizens devoted to national service
and international goodwill.
Philosophy can have a profound influence on a teacher's knowledge and
teaching practices in various ways. Here are some key ways in which
philosophy can impact teaching:
1. Educational Philosophy: A teacher's educational philosophy serves
as the foundation for their teaching approach. Different philosophies,
such as progressiveness, essential ism, constructionist, or perennial
ism, emphasize different aspects of education and learning. For
example, a teacher who follows a constructionist philosophy may
focus on student-centered learning and encourage active engagement,
while an essentially teacher may emphasize core knowledge and
essential skills.
2. Epistemology: Epistemology deals with the nature of knowledge and
how we come to know things. A teacher's understanding of
epistemology influences their views on how students acquire
knowledge and how it should be imparted. Teachers who adopt a

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 more constructionist perspective might encourage students to
discover knowledge themselves through hands-on experiences and
critical thinking, whereas those with a more traditional view might
rely on direct instruction and transmission of established knowledge.
3. Ethics: Philosophical ethics can guide a teacher's behavior in the
classroom. Ethical considerations help teachers navigate moral
dilemmas, make fair decisions, and create a respectful and inclusive
learning environment. Ethics also influence how teachers handle
disciplinary issues, assess students, and interact with their peers and
students' families.
4. Metaphysics: Metaphysics explores fundamental questions about
reality, existence, and the nature of being. A teacher's metaphysical
beliefs can influence their understanding of students' individuality,
potential, and purpose in education. For instance, a teacher who
believes in the inherent dignity and uniqueness of each student might
adopt a more personalized approach to instruction.
5. Aesthetics: Aesthetics deals with the nature of beauty and artistic
experiences. While it may not be as directly related to teaching
practices, a teacher's appreciation for aesthetics can impact how they
design their classroom environment and incorporate creative and
artistic elements into their teaching to engage students' imagination
and emotions.

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 6. Critical Thinking and Philosophy of Education: Philosophical
inquiry encourages critical thinking, which is a valuable skill for both
teachers and students. Engaging in philosophical discussions and
debates can cultivate analytical reasoning, open-mindedness, and the
ability to evaluate arguments, all of which can be beneficial for
teachers and help them encourage critical thinking among their
students.
7. Worldview and Values: Philosophy shapes a teacher's worldview
and values, which can influence how they approach cultural diversity,
social issues, and the development of students' character. Teachers
with a humanistic philosophy, for example, might emphasize
empathy, compassion, and social responsibility in their teaching.
In summary, philosophy provides a framework for understanding the
fundamental aspects of teaching and learning. A teacher's philosophical
beliefs influence their overall approach to education, their classroom
practices, and the type of learning environment they create for their
students. By reflecting on their own philosophical standpoint, teachers can
better align their beliefs with their teaching methods and contribute to a
more meaningful and effective educational experience for their students.
Q.2 What are the educational beliefs and teaching practices of a
teacher influenced by realism?
A teacher influenced by realism holds certain educational beliefs and
adopts specific teaching practices based on the philosophical perspective

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of realism. Realism is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the existence
of an external, objective reality that is independent of our thoughts or
beliefs. When applied to education, realism influences how teachers
perceive knowledge, learning, and the role of the teacher in the classroom.
Realists believe that reality exists independent of the human mind. The
ultimate reality is the world of physical objects. The focus is on the
body/objects. Truth is objective-what can be observed. Aristotle, a student
of Plato who broke with his mentor's idealist philosophy, is called the
father of both Realism and the scientific method. In this metaphysical
view, the aim is to understand objective reality through "the diligent and
unsparing scrutiny of all observable data." Aristotle believed that to
understand an object, its ultimate form had to be understood, which does
not change. For example, a rose exists whether or not a person is aware of
it.
The Realist curriculum emphasizes the subject matter of the physical
world, particularly science and mathematics. The teacher organizes and
presents content systematically within a discipline, demonstrating use of
criteria in making decisions. Teaching methods focus on mastery of facts
and basic skills through demonstration and recitation. Students must also
demonstrate the ability to think critically and scientifically, using
observation and experimentation. Curriculum should be scientifically
approached, standardized, and distinct-discipline based. Character is
developed through training in the rules of conduct.

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Here are some educational beliefs and teaching practices of a teacher
influenced by realism:
Educational Beliefs:
1. Objectivity of Knowledge: A realist teacher believes in the
existence of objective knowledge that exists independently of
individual perceptions. They view knowledge as a collection of facts,
principles, and universal truths that are to be discovered and
understood by students.
2. Focus on Core Subjects: Realist teachers emphasize core subjects,
such as mathematics, science, history, and literature, as these fields
are seen as essential for understanding the world and its underlying
principles.
3. Emphasis on Critical Thinking: Realism promotes critical thinking
and reasoning skills. A realist teacher encourages students to analyze,
question, and evaluate information to arrive at valid conclusions
about reality.
4. Importance of Direct Experience: Realism emphasizes the value of
direct experiences and observations as a means of understanding the
world. Realist teachers may use experiments, field trips, and hands-
on activities to provide students with concrete experiences that
connect theory to practice.
5. Real-World Application: Realist teachers strive to demonstrate the
practical application of knowledge in real-world situations. They help

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 students understand how what they learn in the classroom is relevant
to their lives and the world around them.
6. Teacher as a Facilitator: While realist teachers believe in the
objective reality of knowledge, they still play a facilitate role in the
learning process. They guide students through the exploration of
subjects, present information, and provide opportunities for students
to engage with the material.
Teaching Practices:
1. Use of Textbooks and Reliable Sources: Realist teachers rely on
textbooks and other reliable sources of information to present
students with established knowledge and well-supported facts.
2. Demonstrations and Experiments: Realism encourages the use of
demonstrations and experiments in science and other subjects to
provide concrete evidence and illustrate abstract concepts.
3. Questioning and Discussion: Realist teachers promote questioning
and encourage students to engage in discussions and debates to
enhance their understanding of different viewpoints and arrive at
objective conclusions.
4. Emphasis on Academic Rigor: Realist teachers maintain high
academic standards, expecting students to grasp foundational
knowledge and develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

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 5. Structured Learning: Realist teachers often follow a structured
curriculum, ensuring that students acquire foundational knowledge
before progressing to more complex concepts.
6. Assessment Based on Objective Criteria: Realist teachers use
objective criteria, such as exams and quizzes, to assess students'
understanding and mastery of the subject matter.
Overall, a teacher influenced by realism seeks to provide students with a
solid foundation of objective knowledge and the tools to critically analyze
and interpret the world around them. By emphasizing the importance of
rigorous learning and practical application, the realist teacher aims to
prepare students to engage effectively in the real world and contribute to
society based on a clear understanding of reality.
Q.3 Describe the types of pragmatism?
Pragmatism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes practicality,
usefulness, and the consequences of ideas and actions. It emerged in the
late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States and has since
become influential in various fields, including philosophy, education, and
social sciences. There are different types or strands of pragmatism, each
with its own nuances and emphases.
For pragmatists, only those things that are experienced or observed are
real. In this late 19th century American philosophy, the focus is on the
reality of experience. Unlike the Realists and Rationalists, Pragmatists
believe that reality is constantly changing and that we learn best through

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applying our experiences and thoughts to problems, as they arise. The
universe is dynamic and evolving, a "becoming" view of the world. There
is no absolute and unchanging truth, but rather, truth is what works.
Pragmatism is derived from the teaching of Charles Sanders Pierce (1839-
1914), who believed that thought must produce action, rather than linger
in the mind and lead to indecisiveness.
John Dewey (1859-1952) applied pragmatist philosophy in his progressive
approaches. He believed that learners must adapt to each other and to their
environment. Schools should emphasize the subject matter of social
experience. All learning is dependent on the context of place, time, and
circumstance. Different cultural and ethnic groups learn to work
cooperatively and contribute to a democratic society. The ultimate purpose
is the creation of a new social order. Character development is based on
making group decisions in light of consequences.
For Pragmatists, teaching methods focus on hands-on problem solving,
experimenting, and projects, often having students work in groups.
Curriculum should bring the disciplines together to focus on solving
problems in an interdisciplinary way. Rather than passing down organized
bodies of knowledge to new learners, Pragmatists believe that learners
should apply their knowledge to real situations through experimental
inquiry. This prepares students for citizenship, daily living, and future
careers.
Here are some of the key types of pragmatism:

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1. Classical Pragmatism: Classical pragmatism refers to the early form
of pragmatism developed by the founders of the philosophical school,
Charles Sanders Pierce, William James, and John Dewey. It focuses
on the pragmatic method, which involves testing ideas by their
practical consequences and their ability to solve problems. Classical
pragmatists also emphasize the importance of experience,
experimentation, and action in shaping beliefs and knowledge.
2. Neo pragmatism: Neo pragmatism is a more contemporary form of
pragmatism that builds upon the ideas of the classical pragmatists.
Philosophers like Richard Rory and Hilary Putnam are associated
with pragmatism. Neo pragmatism is often more focused on language,
communication, and the social aspects of knowledge. It seeks to
understand how language and discourse influence our understanding
of reality and how our beliefs are socially constructed.
3. Logical Pragmatism: Logical pragmatism is an offshoot of
pragmatism that places a strong emphasis on the pragmatic maxim,
which suggests that the meaning of concepts and ideas lies in their
practical implications and the effects they produce. Logical
pragmatists explore the relationships between language, thought, and
action, and they aim to develop a practical logic that accounts for the
real-life uses and consequences of language.
4. Radical Pragmatism: Radical pragmatism takes pragmatism to its
extreme, arguing that all philosophical and theoretical inquiries

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 should be geared entirely toward practical problem-solving and
making a positive impact on human life. This type of pragmatism
downplays the importance of traditional philosophical debates and
emphasizes the importance of concrete solutions and practical
applications.
5. Therapeutic Pragmatism: Therapeutic pragmatism, associated with
philosophers like Richard Rort y, focuses on the role of philosophy as
a form of therapy. It suggests that philosophical problems and
debates often arise from misunderstandings or misuses of language.
By analyzing and clarifying language, philosophical issues can be
dissolved, leading to more productive and practical discussions.
6. Cultural Pragmatism: Cultural pragmatism examines how cultural
and social factors influence our beliefs and practices. It explores how
cultural context shapes our understanding of truth, knowledge, and
reality. This type of pragmatism emphasizes the value of diverse
perspectives and experiences in shaping our understanding of the
world.
These various types of pragmatism reflect the adaptability and open-ended
nature of the pragmatic approach. Pragmatism is not a rigid doctrine but a
flexible method of inquiry and problem-solving that seeks to address real-
life concerns and improve the human condition. As a result, pragmatism
continues to evolve and find applications in different areas of philosophy
and beyond.

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Q.4 What is contribution of existentialism in education?
The nature of reality for Existentialists is subjective, and lies within the
individual. The physical world has no inherent meaning outside of human
existence. Individual choice and individual standards rather than external
standards are central. Existence comes before any definition of what we
are. We define ourselves in relationship to that existence by the choices
we make. We should not accept anyone else predetermined philosophical
system; rather, we must take responsibility for deciding who we are. The
focus is on freedom, the development of authentic individuals, as we make
meaning of our lives.
There are several different orientations within the existentialist philosophy.
Siren Kierkegaard (1813-1855), a Danish minister and philosopher, is
considered to be the founder of existentialism. His was a Christian
orientation. Another group of existentialists, largely European, believes
that we must recognize the fineness of our lives on this small and fragile
planet, rather than believing in salvation through God. Our existence is not
guaranteed in an afterlife, so there is tension about life and the certainty of
death, of hope or despair. Unlike the more austere European approaches
where the universe is seen as meaningless when faced with the certainty of
the end of existence, American existentialists have focused more on
human potential and the quest for personal meaning. Values clarification
is an outgrowth of this movement.

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Following the bleak period of World War II, the French philosopher, Jean
Paul Sartre, suggested that for youth, the existential moment arises when
young people realize for the first time that choice is theirs, that they are
responsible for themselves. Their question becomes "Who am I and what
should I do? Related to education, the subject matter of existentialist
classrooms should be a matter of personal choice. Teachers view the
individual as an entity within a social context in which the learner must
confront others' views to clarify his or her own. Character development
emphasizes individual responsibility for decisions. Real answers come
from within the individual, not from outside authority. Examining life
through authentic thinking involves students in genuine learning
experiences.
Existentialists are opposed to thinking about students as objects to be
measured, tracked, or standardized. Such educators want the educational
experience to focus on creating opportunities for self-direction and self-
actualization. They start with the student, rather than on curriculum
content.
Existentialism has made significant contributions to education by
influencing how educators approach teaching and learning. Existentialism
is a philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom,
choice, and personal responsibility. It emerged in the 20th century and has
had a profound impact on various fields, including education.
Here are some of the key contributions of existentialism to education:

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1. Emphasis on Individuality: Existentialism places a strong emphasis
on the uniqueness of each individual. In education, this means
recognizing and valuing the individuality of students. Existentialist
educators encourage students to explore their own interests, passions,
and talents, fostering a sense of self-awareness and self-expression.
2. Freedom and Choice: Existentialism emphasizes human freedom
and the importance of personal choice. Existentialist education
encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning and
make choices about their education. This approach empowers
students to have an active role in shaping their educational
experiences.
3. Authenticity and Personal Growth: Existentialist educators
promote authenticity, encouraging students to be true to themselves
and their values. This emphasis on authenticity supports personal
growth and self-discovery, helping students develop a deeper
understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
4. Critical Thinking and Reflection: Existentialism encourages critical
thinking and self-reflection. Existentialist educators often engage
students in philosophical discussions and encourage them to question
assumptions, societal norms, and their own beliefs. This process of
questioning and reflection leads to a deeper understanding of oneself
and the world.

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 5. Meaning and Purpose: Existentialism explores questions of
meaning and purpose in life. Existentialist education helps students
grapple with these questions, enabling them to find meaning in their
studies and connect their learning to their larger life goals and
aspirations.
6. Engagement with Existential Themes: Existentialist themes, such
as freedom, choice, responsibility, and the search for meaning, can be
integrated into the curriculum and classroom discussions. This
engagement with existential ideas can inspire students to think
critically and contemplate their own values and beliefs.
7. Ethical Considerations: Existentialism raises important ethical
questions, such as how individuals should act in the face of freedom
and responsibility. Existentialist education encourages students to
consider the ethical implications of their actions and choices,
fostering a sense of moral awareness and accountability.
8. Recognition of Anxiety and Uncertainty: Existentialism
acknowledges the presence of anxiety and uncertainty in human
existence. Existentialist educators create a supportive and empathetic
learning environment, acknowledging students' concerns and helping
them navigate challenges.
Overall, existentialism in education promotes an approach that respects
and values the individual, encourages personal growth and responsibility,
and inspires students to think critically and deeply about their lives and the

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world around them. By incorporating existentialist principles into
education, educators can help students develop into self-aware, engaged,
and ethically conscious individuals capable of making meaningful
contributions to society.
Q.5 What is empirical knowledge? Justify its objectivity with the help
of suitable examples?
Empirical knowledge relies on objective facts that have been established
and can be demonstrated. The empirical knowledge is an attempt to
discover a basis for our knowledge in sense experience. In other words,
empirical knowledge is the type that finds recourse or confirmed by the
evidence of sensory experience. It is thus derived from the use of five
senses since knowledge can only be acquired from the experience of
seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling, and tasting. It is the evidence of the
senses that gives meaning to empirical knowledge since the senses,
according to the empiricists, are the source and originator of our
knowledge. The thrust of the empiricists as regard knowledge is that there
is no knowledge prior to sense experience and there can be no knowledge
outside sense experience. Since empirical knowledge is fundamentally
rooted on sense experience, it stands to reason that observation and
experimentation will also be basic to empirical knowledge.
Empiricists hold that all of our knowledge is ultimately derived from our
senses or our experiences. They therefore deny the existence of innate
knowledge, i.e. knowledge that we possess from birth. Empiricism fits

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well with the scientific world-view that places an emphasis on
experimentation and observation. It struggles, however, to account for
certain types of knowledge, e.g. knowledge of pure mathematics or ethics.
Empirical knowledge refers to knowledge that is gained through
observation, experience, and evidence gathered from the external world. It
is based on direct sensory perceptions or empirical evidence and can be
verified or falsified through systematic observation and experimentation.
Empirical knowledge relies on the use of the five senses (sight, hearing,
touch, taste, and smell) to gather data and draw conclusions about the
physical world.
The objectivity of empirical knowledge lies in its reliance on observable
and verifiable evidence, making it independent of individual opinions or
subjective biases.
Here are some examples that illustrate the objectivity of empirical
knowledge:
Example: Measuring the Length of a Table
Suppose you want to know the length of a table in your room. You take a
ruler and measure the table's length in inches or centimeters. The
measurement you obtain is empirical knowledge because it is based on
direct observation and measurement. Regardless of who measures the
table, the length will be the same, given the accuracy of the measuring
instrument. The objectivity here stems from the fact that anyone can

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independently verify the measurement using the same ruler and arrive at
the same result.
Example: Determining the Boiling Point of Water
In a science lab, students conduct an experiment to determine the boiling
point of water. They heat a sample of water and record the temperature at
which it starts to boil. The boiling point they measure is empirical
knowledge because it is based on direct observation and data collection.
The objectivity in this case comes from the fact that anyone with the
necessary equipment and following the same experimental procedures
would arrive at the same boiling point for water.
Example: Conducting a Survey
A researcher conducts a survey to gather information about people's
preferences for a particular product. They distribute questionnaires to a
representative sample of the population and analyze the responses. The
data collected from the survey becomes empirical knowledge because it is
based on direct observations and responses from the participants. The
objectivity here is maintained through careful sampling techniques and
statistical analysis, allowing other researchers to reproduce the survey and
reach similar conclusions.
In each of these examples, the objectivity of empirical knowledge lies in
the fact that it is based on observable evidence that can be independently
verified. The measurements, observations, and data collected are not
influenced by personal beliefs or subjective interpretations. The empirical

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approach forms the foundation of scientific inquiry, enabling researchers
to build upon existing knowledge, conduct experiments, and develop
theories that are grounded in observable reality.

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