mamabear2three Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Does anyone write their philosophy of education (why you do what you do)? or do you just write your goals? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ellie Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Neither. :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Farrar Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I have the kids write their goals. I write goals too. I haven't written out a philosophy in a long time though. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamabear2three Posted July 11, 2013 Author Share Posted July 11, 2013 I write goals out all the time, it's a personality thing (if I am going to do something, I need to know after I'm done that I did what I set out to do, so without goals, I never have a clear picture of what I've accomplished unless it's a physical thing I made, like dinner...lol) I guess I was just wondering if it was worth the brain power to think through my specific philosophy given the fact that I have a lot of family that are not familiar with homeschooling and some who are simply not in agreement with homeschooling. If it's a waste of time, though... I dunno. It was just a thought I was wondering about. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jar7709 Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 If it helps you to write out a homeschool philosophy, then sure go for it. But I don't really understand wanting to show it to family members who aren't on board? I would think that would backfire...for my family anyway. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maela Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 My philosophy seems to change every few months. We've only officially HSed for a year; but I've been giving thought to it since before I had the kids. I love to read others' educational philosophies. Unfortunately, that's what causes me to change mine so often. I do have a goal list (that I wrote a few years ago) of all of the skills that I want my kids to have by the time they turn 18. This list includes academic stuff, but also practical stuff like being able to change a tire. I also have little inspirational notes written here and there in my teacher's binder; some of them are from posts read here at the WTM or excerpts from my favorite HSing books. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamabear2three Posted July 11, 2013 Author Share Posted July 11, 2013 no, I wouldn't share it with them, it would just be something for me to have worked out in my head so that when they challenge me, I have already worked out the language to communicate why I am choosing to do it this way... (for example, my physical expectations for writing are very different from what my sister in law attempts to get her kindergarten students to do in the public school) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
texasmama Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I have it all in my brain. :D I have not ever written it down, though. It might not be a bad idea for me to write down my philosophy, though, so I could keep it straight in my own head and have a short explanation when people ask what type of homeschooling I do/what curriculum I use/etc. I don't have a short, straight answer to that one, and it does come up a lot. I usually say that I follow a mostly classical approach, but many people have no idea what that means, even those in homeschooling circles. Goals would be a bit more difficult, as these change quite a bit. I do have an overall end goal, though, but it is not terribly specific. I need to write it down and memorize it. :D I don't think writing anything down will help persuade reluctant family members, but it might make you feel more prepared to present your philosophy to folks in general. At this point in my journey, I feel like our path is pretty clear (overall philosophy and goals), so this would be more for presenting to others than for myself. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
texasmama Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I do have a goal list (that I wrote a few years ago) of all of the skills that I want my kids to have by the time they turn 18. This list includes academic stuff, but also practical stuff like being able to change a tire. I also have little inspirational notes written here and there in my teacher's binder; some of them are from posts read here at the WTM or excerpts from my favorite HSing books. This sounds very inspirational. I like it! I would love to see your list if it is something you are willing to share. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamabear2three Posted July 11, 2013 Author Share Posted July 11, 2013 It might not be a bad idea for me to write down my philosophy, though, so I could keep it straight in my own head and have a short explanation when people ask what type of homeschooling I do/what curriculum I use/etc. I don't have a short, straight answer to that one, and it does come up a lot. I usually say that I follow a mostly classical approach, but many people have no idea what that means, even those in homeschooling circles. This - this is what I meant to say but am apparently too tired to figure out how to word! I get a lot of questions like this from my non-homeschooling family, and a put-together answer would make me feel more confident, as sad as that sounds. Anyone have one written that I could read as an example? Or have a link to one? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
elegantlion Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 My homeschool philosophy has evolved over the years (9 years), but there can be value in writing it down. I have a notebook with stuff like that, inspirational posts or notes. It's something to visit when the naysayers pull you down. It can also help to have it practiced, so when you have those difficult conversations it's a like a layer of protection. If they're talking about your dc being able to stand in a line or be "socialized" or "bullied for their own good", then you can smile and know that it's not part of your personal philosophy and not be bothered by the comments. It does help to know the WHY of something, so you don't get pulled in 40 directions. If writing it down helps, by all means do so. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Walking-Iris Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I do. I have written in a journal for as long as I can remember. I feel off if I don't write. I usually journal about my personal goals for the children and myself as a homeschooling parent, as well as tons of other things. It changes over the years, but it's helpful for me to have my thoughts on paper. I do have one journal that I reserve for homeschooling purposes. It's just my ramblings, lists of resources to research, rough plans, quotes from books or authors, and so on. Nothing formal that I would share with anyone. I think writing out some sort of philosophy or mission statement is a great idea. ETA: I wouldn't do it for other people. I don't ever try to justify homeschooling to family members who may want to discuss it critically. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
8filltheheart Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I agree with Elegant Lion in that it does help to keep focused on the why of something to stay grounded. I didn't come up with my own philosophy, but I have embraced a philosophy that is my guiding principle. This is a brief summation of mine: http://www.kolbe.org/index.php/philosophy/kolbe-philosophy/ignatian-method/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maela Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 This sounds very inspirational. I like it! I would love to see your list if it is something you are willing to share. Well, I'm shy, but why not! :) The list isn't in order or comprehensive. I add to it as I think of something. Some of these things I don't even know how to do. What I want my kids to know: how to read how to tell time be able to quickly add, subtract, multiply, divide for everyday use how to type have legible handwriting whether it's cursive or print write well enough for people to understand them (and not cringe at their bad spelling/grammar) how to play at least one musical instrument how to read music on a basic level at least one other language good knowledge of world geography (physical and cultural) how to swim how to ride a bike how to change a bike tire/chain how to cook/bake how to eat nutritiously how to keep a house clean how to start/maintain a small garden how to sew (very basic stuff like hemming pants, repairing a missing button) how to deal with money/take care of their day to day finances how to drive a car (manual and automatic) how to change the car's tires & oil how media/advertising affects us how to use the scientific method navigating public transportation in a big city build a fire shoot, care for, safety re: guns how to play chess how to fix a leaky faucet think critically/stand up for what they know is right how to make newcomers to a group feel welcome basic manner/etiquette how to entertain themselves/be okay with being alone the basics of baby care how to read a map/use a compass basic first aid how to research answers to questions using various resources (library, internet, etc.) have accurate information on pregnancy, birth, STDs For girls: how to chart their fertility signs Sorry to be slightly off-topic! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ajfries Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Maela, an excellent list!! I like that you included charting for girls...I really wish I would have read Taking Control of Your Fertility as a teen (not for fertility, but just for general information). I haven't written out my own philosophy, but I have seen many philosophies that resonate with me. It is something I'd like to have written out at some point. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brooketopia Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I've found that I've had to start writing down my educational philosophy in order to have an answer for myself during periods of questioning why I'm homeschooling. It can be rather uncomfortable to put it down on paper, as it requires me to honestly evaluate what I think of public schools, the definition of education, and what I believe my children should be doing during their formative years. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamabear2three Posted July 11, 2013 Author Share Posted July 11, 2013 I love that list! Thank you for sharing!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maela Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Maela, an excellent list!! I like that you included charting for girls...I really wish I would have read Taking Control of Your Fertility as a teen (not for fertility, but just for general information). That's the book I have! Reading that book made me realize how little we women know about our bodies! And a lot of the comments/questions I got from people during pg showed how much misinformation there is out there re: pg and birth. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
texasmama Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Thank you for sharing, Maela! That is a great list, and I found myself reading through it seeing what I could check off and for which kid. I second or third Taking Charge of Your Fertility. It is for such a wide audience, not just ladies who want to conceive or avoid conceiving. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Crimson Wife Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 The author wrote a book for teens but according to reviews it supposedly contains information that I would personally find problematic (permissive attitude towards teen s*x). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
*Lulu* Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 To the OP, yes, I believe there is great value in putting things in writing. Seven years ago, when DH and I were making decisions about homeschooling, I wrote out my goals, a scope and sequence for pre-k through 12, and my educational philosophy. It was a very good exercise allowing me to cement my reasons for homeschooling in a way that made verbalizing my thoughts easier. Some of my philosophy has changed, but my main objectives have not. It is very helpful to go back and touch on those founding documents of our homeschool from time to time. It inspires means reminds me that even though the path we are taking is not the one I originally envisioned, the goal is the same and this marathon is not even close to an end yet. You can certainly school successfully without ever doing this. A the same time, if you think you will find it helpful, you should feel free to work out your thoughts on paper. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KrissiK Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 No, I don't. I don't write down my educational philosophy because JW and SWB have done such a good job for me. Goals? Educational goals ... finish the curriculum by the end of the school year with relative mastery. My attitude toward goals in life really changed in my mid to late 20's when I realized I have relatively little control of my own life. I wasn't married when I finished college, I didn't have 2 kids by the time I was 30. All the goals I had previously were quite unattainable, really, and by the time I was 30 I was pretty disillusioned by life. Then, I just gave up on goals and lived my life on day at a time. I like my life and the journey it took to get here was not tragic or anything, but definitely not something I really had a lot of control over (in the grand scheme of things) and wasn't a route I would have chosen. So, I stopped making goals and just live my life. It's more interesting that way. And I guess that Attitude has spilled over in the way I live my life day to day with everything. And it's not that I am not future oriented. We plan for the future, we just don't plan where we want to be. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NancyNellen Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Yes. Twelve years ago, when we began our homeschooling journey, my husband and I spent a week or two coming up with our philosophy. In the ensuing years it has helped me clearly explain why we do what we do, as well as being a reminder for ME when I get off-track and into box-checking mode. I find it inspirational to read through it and see the big picture again. I say go for it if it will help you to clearly see the overarching reasons for doing what you do. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sarah CB Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 I believe that having a written philosophy of education is very important - especially in your first five years of homeschooling. I do a workshop called Creating Your Own Philosophy of Education and blogged a little bit about it here: http://fanningflame.wordpress.com/2007/08/25/philosophy-of-education/ My philosophy of education is there as well - although it's from 2007 and it's clearly time for a revision. I would need to include the importance of being part of a community of learners, the benefits of learning through experiences, and more emphasis on math and science. And I'd want to emphasize how deeply we're able to study. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mandy in TN Posted July 11, 2013 Share Posted July 11, 2013 Does anyone write their philosophy of education (why you do what you do)? or do you just write your goals? Yes, I have written far more about my homeschool philosophy than I have about goals. It is good to know why you are homeschooling. It keeps you from wanting to purchase every new product that comes along. ;) Knowing that I am not homeschooling for religious reasons, knowing that I am not homeschooling because I think I somehow must do everything that the ps school is doing and more, knowing that homeschooling is not an academic race, knowing that just because a traditional classroom is not a good fit for my family doesn't make it a bad choice for others, and so forth, these things help me make choices not only in the curriculum we use and in the methods used to implement that curriculum but it also helps guide me in parenting in general. My homeschool philosophy also impacts how I discuss homeschooling with others. I know that for me homeschooling isn't just an educational choice. It is only a piece of a parenting and lifestyle choice. My homeschool philosophy reflects this. So, when I discuss homeschooling in my family, I certainly don't have any notion that the way we have chosen to raise our kids is the only way. I just know what I want for my family. I think it was this time last year that there were several very goal oriented threads. In response to reading so many posts about how important it was to be as rigorous as possible and about goals that ended with a child graduating from a tier 1 college, I rewrote my homeschool philosophy to include thoughts I had on this push by parents to somehow prove their homeschool worthy through the academic achievements made by their child. They were things I already felt. It just previously didn't occur to me to include them in my homeschool philosophy. Mandy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ElizabethB Posted July 12, 2013 Share Posted July 12, 2013 Some links that might help are here, she is coming from a Christian perspective: http://www.susancanthony.com/Workshops/philosophy.html (See the links to the right.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NASDAQ Posted July 12, 2013 Share Posted July 12, 2013 My philosophy would be this: - Only do that which is worth doing. - Whatever is done, do it as efficiently as possible and as well as possible. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamabear2three Posted July 12, 2013 Author Share Posted July 12, 2013 Thanks! very helpful! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justamouse Posted July 12, 2013 Share Posted July 12, 2013 I think goals and philosophy are two completely different things? I have an overarching philosophy of why we teach our children at home and what a school is (the Abolition of Man helped me with that) which are a part of what is man and why does he need an education? --the goals are different for each child but they still all need a liberal arts education to get there. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Twain Posted July 13, 2013 Share Posted July 13, 2013 As for philosophy of education, I read two books that summarized the best evidence very well: The Knowledge Deficit (Hirsch) Why Don't Students Like School? (Willingham) I wrote down the central conclusions from these books regarding the best evidence for teaching children and helping them become well educated. That is essentially my philosophy--to follow the best evidence. Having this list is extremely helpful because it allows me to make clear goals as well as to analyze the various contradictory opinions that continually circulate in homeschool circles. I can fairly easily judge whether or not I like a curriculum or educational program by whether or not it follows the evidence, and I am not easily taken in by emotional or popular homeschool mantras. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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