Educational Philosophy

Thomas Jefferson Education

Educational Doctrines, Principles, and Applications

Educational Philosophy

TJEd is based mainly on Idealism and Existentialism

Idealism in education values eternal truths, great ideas, and the shaping of character through engagement with classics and moral ideals. The teacher guides students toward wisdom, virtue, and big ideas rather than skill-drilling.

Assigning a classic book or a foundational document and lead a discussion aorund questions like "What is justice?" or "What makes a good leader?" rather than having a test on comprehension.
A student chooses a principle such as "liberty" and reads classics that have that theme then produces a polished essay or speech arguing for a clear, principled, definiation and its implications for modern life.

Existentialism in education emphasizes personal freedom, responsibility, and choice which goes well with the theme "inspire, not require". It helps the teacher to honor the student's unique mission and identity, asking learners to wrestle with classics and life questions to inspire ownership, meaning-making, and agency.

Asking the student to design a ready and project list around a specific question or concern. The student would use classics, biographies, and experiences to help them answer the question. You would mentor the process honoring their freedom and responsibliity.
After reading a classic students keep a journal answering prompts such as "What kind of person do I want to become because of this book?" You then hold mentoring conversations that treat those reflections as sacred, helping students make authentic choices about themselves and their future selves rather that there is one "right" response.

Doctrine: Student-Centered Learning

Student-centered learning focuses on actively engaging students and tailoring education to their individual needs and strengths.

Principle: Active Engagement

Application: Use hands-on projects to explore concepts.
Application: Encourage group discussions and peer teaching.

Principle: Individualized Learning

Application: Tailor assignments to student interests and strengths.
Application: Use differentiated instruction strategies.

Doctrine: Knowledge and Skills Mastery

This doctrine emphasizes mastery of essential knowledge and the development of critical thinking skills.

Principle: Core Curriculum Focus

Application: Emphasize foundational subjects such as math, literacy, and science.
Application: Include frequent assessments to monitor progress.

Principle: Critical Thinking Development

Application: Assign problem-solving activities.
Application: Incorporate debates on real-world issues.

Doctrine: Moral and Character Education

Educating students to be ethical, responsible citizens is central to this doctrine.

Principle: Ethical Reasoning

Application: Discuss moral dilemmas across cultures and history.
Application: Promote honesty and integrity in academic work.

Principle: Responsibility and Citizenship

Application: Encourage community service projects.
Application: Teach democratic participation through student councils.

Doctrine: Growth and Development Alignment

Aligning educational practices with students’ developmental stages supports effective learning.

Principle: Developmentally Appropriate Practices

Application: Use age-appropriate materials and instructional methods.
Application: Adjust learning goals based on developmental stages.

Principle: Emotional and Social Learning

Application: Implement social skills training programs.
Application: Foster a supportive classroom environment.

Doctrine: Teaching as Mentorship

Teaching is seen as guiding and mentoring rather than solely delivering content.

Principle: Teacher as Facilitator

Application: Guide inquiry rather than give direct answers.
Application: Provide individualized feedback and coaching.

Principle: Lifelong Learning Model

Application: Model continuous learning and curiosity.
Application: Encourage reflection on learning experiences.

Doctrine: Learning Environment and Culture

Creating a positive and inclusive environment is vital for student success.

Principle: Safe and Inclusive Environment

Application: Establish anti-bullying policies and practices.
Application: Celebrate diversity through multicultural curricula.

Principle: Encouragement of Creativity and Innovation

Application: Provide open-ended creative assignments.
Application: Use technology tools to support creative expression.

Essential Questions

Who am I?

I am a disciple of Christ. I am a child of God. I am a mother and a daughter who cares about other people.

What motivates me?

I want to be that person that I needed when I was younger. I want to be a good example of Christ. I want to let His light shine in my actions and countenance.

How do I view those I teach?

Everyone is a genius. We might not know YET how they are a genius but the potential is there. They all deserve to be treated accordingly.

What is my work as a teacher?

I want to foster the love of learning so that they are wanting to be lifelong learners. I want to encourage the pursuit of good and true principles. To help guide them in applying those same principle to their lives and what that could look like.

What is worth teaching?

Any knowledge that falls in the category of Article of Faith #13. There is nothing too small or too big. There is a lot out there that has true principles. I also really like classic books that teach lessons every time we read them, this includes core books aka scriptures.

What is the role of schools?

To show children and people HOW to think and not WHAT to think. To encourage them to push forward and think outside the box. To promote the idea that everyone is always learning new things and that it is a good thing to continue learning.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse