For The Existentialist Educator Values Are

For the Existentialist Educator, Values Are Self-Created and Continuously Evolving

Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and responsibility, profoundly impacts education. Unlike educators who believe values are pre-ordained and objectively true, the existentialist educator views values as subjective, personally chosen, and constantly evolving. This article explores this core tenet of existentialist pedagogy, examining its implications for curriculum, teaching methods, and the overall learning experience.

What defines an Existentialist Approach to Values?

For the existentialist educator, the journey of value creation is central to the educational process. Instead of imposing a fixed set of moral principles, the focus shifts to fostering self-awareness, critical thinking, and the freedom to choose one's own path. This doesn't imply moral relativism; rather, it highlights the deeply personal and often challenging process of defining what is meaningful and worthwhile. Students are encouraged to question established norms, grapple with ethical dilemmas, and ultimately, to take ownership of their values.

Key Characteristics of Existentialist Value Formation in Education:

• Authenticity: The emphasis is on genuine self-expression and living in accordance with one's own beliefs, even when those beliefs diverge from societal expectations. Students are encouraged to explore their unique perspectives and develop their own voice.
• Freedom and Responsibility: Students are empowered to make choices, understanding that with freedom comes the responsibility for the consequences of those choices. This fosters a sense of agency and accountability.
• Subjectivity: Recognizing that there's no single, universally accepted truth, the existentialist educator encourages students to critically evaluate different viewpoints and develop their own understanding of values.
• Engagement and Meaning-Making: Learning isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it's about actively engaging with the world and creating meaning from one's experiences. This involves grappling with existential questions and exploring one's place in the universe.
• Continuous Growth: Values aren't static; they evolve throughout life as individuals encounter new experiences and perspectives. The educational process is viewed as a lifelong journey of self-discovery and value refinement.

Implications for Curriculum and Teaching Methods:

An existentialist approach to education necessitates a shift away from rote learning and towards more experiential and student-centered methods. The curriculum should:

• Promote critical thinking: Students should be encouraged to question assumptions, analyze information, and form their own conclusions. Debates, discussions, and problem-solving activities are essential.
• Encourage self-reflection: Journaling, introspection exercises, and opportunities for personal expression help students develop self-awareness and understand their values.
• Provide opportunities for choice and decision-making: Students should be given choices in their learning activities, allowing them to explore their interests and develop their own learning paths. Project-based learning is a suitable approach.
• Foster a sense of community: Collaboration and peer learning are crucial in an existentialist classroom, as students learn from each other's perspectives and experiences.

Ultimately, the existentialist educator's role is to guide students on their individual journeys of self-discovery and value creation. It's about fostering a learning environment that respects individual autonomy, encourages critical thinking, and empowers students to live authentically and responsibly. The teacher acts as a facilitator, mentor, and guide, rather than an authority figure imposing pre-determined values. This approach, though challenging, creates learners who are not only knowledgeable but also self-aware, responsible, and deeply engaged with the world around them.