Introduction
My philosophy is rather consistent with the ideas and beliefs articulated by Combs regarding the essence of education. Combs emphasized that educational philosophy should be flexible as the modern world is developing at a high pace and new ideas and frameworks emerge (Ugwuozor, 2019). I support this view and try to make sure that my educational beliefs are consistent with the current situation, although the primary principles and concepts still remain unchanged. I agree that an educator must address four essential questions when teaching students. Teachers must concentrate on the purpose of education, the role of the teacher and the student in education, as well as the role educator, plays in the community (Ugwuozor, 2019). I believe if teachers ask the corresponding questions when crafting their philosophy and developing their teaching strategies, they will become truly successful in their practice.
Combs’s Framework as a Helpful Educational Paradigm
I support this framework because it is the most appropriate in the modern world. The use of this integrative paradigm is beneficial for students, the teacher, and the community. I want to help students gain knowledge and skills that would be instrumental in their development into active members of human society. I also find Combs’s framework detailed and functional as every educator can use it as a kind of guideline to develop their personal philosophies and shape their practice. I have a definite vision of the aim of education, so I am able to choose the right content and teaching techniques. I know what roles should stakeholders play, so it is difficult for me to plan and run classes. I find collaboration to be the critical component of education, so all stakeholders collaborate and co-create.
I also believe that this educational paradigm is consistent with the Christian worldview. According to Christian values, people should self-develop and evolve throughout their entire lives. The main goal of education is to become enlightened and collaborative, helping others explore this world. Christian values also include the belief that knowledgeable people may lead others to enlightenment and growth. Educators are these leaders and guides who help new generations to acknowledge the challenges of this world, ways to cope with them and see the opportunities to make this world a better place.
Importantly, Christian values can inform educational philosophy in various classroom settings. Teachers choose different types of classroom activities depending on their educational philosophy. Students receive the amount of autonomy depending on the teachers’ educational philosophy, which has an effect on instruction, assessment, and other aspects of teaching and learning. At that, Christian values make all these activities based on particular principles. For instance, compassion and collaboration are key aspects of all activities and tasks implemented in classrooms. Teachers encourage students to be sincere and respectful, willing to help and collaborate. This approach is beneficial for all students’ self-development and their ability to gain knowledge and achieve established academic goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to note that Combs’s framework is a helpful educational paradigm that is consistent with my philosophy. The use of central Christian values can enhance the application of this model in the academic environment. I believe the focus on the purpose of education and each stakeholder’s role is critical, but I also want to make sure that I am a role model for my students. I want to help my students find their place in this world, so I try to make them aware of the basic Christian principles that will definitely help them achieve this goal.
Reference
Ugwuozor, F. O. (2019). Developing a personal philosophy of education: A requisite guide to educational practice. Educational Research Quarterly, 42(3), 3–28.