Judy Lee

EDUC 132
09/04/13
Purposes and Philosophies of Schooling


One thing that I have always believed about school is that it is a key component
to creating well-rounded, genuine humans. As much as it prepares people for the real
world in terms of finding a job, it is also a setting where one learns not only about
themselves, but others as well. Along with expanding ones general knowledge, school is
a place where one can explore a plethora of opportunities to aid them in finding out
where they belong in this world.

In my future art classroom, my main goal would be to help my students
understand themselves better. With almost an art therapist approach, I would like my
students to figure out something about themselves through something they have
created. I have always seen understanding one self as an importance aspect of life and
it is not stressed enough in general classes. When one is able to understand themselves
on a higher level, they are more capable of making clearer decisions and are more
aware of their emotions and deeper feelings. With the emergence of STEM programs
being more prevalent in schools, there seems to be a lack of focus in the fine art
department. Though I agree that that the math and sciences are important, I think the
creative aspects are almost getting ignored. I think it is imperative for students to have a
class where they can fully express themselves with very little boundaries. I hope to
create a respectful atmosphere where students will be supportive of one anothers
creations and appreciate the differences within people and their views.

With that being said, I best adhere to the progressive/humanistic approach in
terms of educational philosophies. For assessment, I know there will be a lot of feedback
from both the students peers and me. My students would learn by doing and
experimenting with their personal interests. With art being a very open ended subject,
the student will need to make decisions on what they think looks best and even solve
problems when they encounter them in projects. I would stand as a facilitator and help
the students as best I can by asking questions to jog their thought processes. In terms of
my general beliefs on what school should be, the progressive/humanistic philosophy
works well because I believe students needs an authentic, hands on experience to truly
figure out if something is right for them.