Answer to Question #209592 in Philosophy for nikky

Question

compare the philosophy of Empiricism with Scientific Rationalism in essay format not more than 1200 words. in your discussion you must refer to how these theories could influence education in South Africa.

Answer 1

According to empiricists, an individual’s learning relies on their observations and perceptions. In other words, they believe that knowledge is impossible without experience. Therefore, the philosophy of empiricism affirms that experiences, particularly sensory experiences, perceive one’s understanding of the universe. On the other hand, scientific rationalism is a philosophical perspective that considers an individual’s reason as the primary discovery knowledge means and defining what is true or false. Therefore, a scientific rationalist relies on logic and reason, unlike an empiricist, who relies on observations and experiences.

Influence of empiricism philosophy in South African education system

Empiricism philosophy in education would ensure that students learn by exploration. For example, the geography students would be taken for a trip to learn more about rocks or hills. Applying empiricism in education leads to effective learning, hence excellent academic performance. The teaching is considered adequate to the students since they actively. They get to learn through experiences, which makes it hard for them to forget. Therefore, empiricism promotes learning through visual aids, whiteboards, Microsoft PowerPoint, and equipment aids. Thus, it would encourage quality teaching and learning in the education system.

Influence of scientific rationalism in South African education system

Instructors ensure their students apply scientific rationalism in learning for them to understand their courses. In other words, they have to use deductive reasoning to validate their answers. For example, an instructor can’t teach a subject like mathematics through empiricism. One has to be rational. Therefore, this philosophical view ensures that education should revolve around thinking rationally and not assimilating facts. In learning and teaching, scientific rationalism would boost the student’s memorizing power. It would promote understanding of particular thinking skills, leading to domain-specific developmental stages.