Philosophical Foundation of Education

Different aspects of philosophy evolve a system of education. Metaphysics, epistemology and ethics of any philosophical thought provide aims, method of teaching, curriculum, educational administration, discipline and role of teacher and students to a system of education. These aspects of philosophy determine the nature and form of education.
     (a)   Metaphysics and Education:
Knowledge of the reality or truth is called metaphysics. The nature of reality determines method of teaching and alms of education. Naturalism is a philosophy of metaphysics rather than epistemology. Most of teaching methods are given by the metaphysics of naturalism. The scope of metaphysics is the whole universe. It provides valuable guidance regarding knowledge of reality and its relative purpose.
       (b)   Epistemology and Education:
The validity of human knowledge and reliability of the sources of our knowledge is epistemology. Idealism is a philosophy of epistemology rather metaphysics, hence most of the aims of education are determined by the philosophy of education. The contribution of epistemology to education is significant. It is epistemology that guides us what knowledge should be given to the students and how it should be imparted. It helps in organizing curriculum at different stages.
       (c)    Ethics and Education:
 A philosopher is more interested to know that what is ‘good’, and ‘bad’. Ethics is concerned with behaviour of man. Decision on ‘good’ and ‘bad’ is very essential in education. Only those things, which are good, should be included in education. Thus, ethics is more valuable for education than psychology and sociology. These aspects of philosophy help in determining the aims of education, methods of teaching, curriculum construction and educational programmes.

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