Educational philosophy trasferred into reality :a case study

Abstract

Educational philosophy is regarded as the mirror, filter, and light for all components of the curriculum. Determination of subject matter, pedagogy, and evaluation depend largely on the philosophy of education. This present study was carried out in the ‘Islamic School for Training and Education’ in Dubai. The primary purpose of the study was to explore stakeholders’ perceptions about the philosophy used in the school. It also aimed to find out how the philosophy of the school affects the curriculum. This qualitative study conducted twelve interviews with different stakeholders (administrators, teachers, parents, students and graduates) selected purposively. The researcher also used observations and documentary analysis as data collection instruments. The findings show that an important part of the philosophy of the school is to save valuable students’ time by shortening the period of study. The school aims to build youths who can fulfill their responsibilities and duties as adults by the time they reach the age of puberty. This entails inculcating Islamic values; teaching classical Arabic and English as a second language and implementing two curricula - one from the UAE Ministry of Education and the other from the school. The study also highlights the successes and shortcomings faced by the school in overcoming the barriers to achieving their goals and mission.