QUESTION THREE QUESTION FOUR QUESTION ONE i) Using examples differentiate between traditional and contemporary educational philosophies. [10 marks] ii) Delineate the main factors to consider in developing a teacher's personal teaching philosophy statement. [10 marks] iii) Explain the educational relevance of Metaphysics. QUESTION TWO Discuss the Socratic saying "I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think" in relation to the Socratic method. [20 marks] i) Define knowledge according to Plato and explain the THREE conditions for defining knowledge. [10 marks] ii) Distinguish between the coherence theory and the correspondence theory of truth. [10 marks] i) By use of examples, show how different subjects in secondary schools in Kenya are founded on epistemology. [10 marks] [10 marks]

**QUESTION ONE**<br /><br />i) **Traditional educational philosophies** often emphasize rote learning, strict discipline, and a teacher-centered approach. For example, in a traditional classroom using **Perennialism**, students might memorize historical facts and dates without necessarily analyzing their significance. The curriculum focuses on enduring ideas and classic texts. In contrast, **contemporary educational philosophies** emphasize student-centered learning, critical thinking, and creativity. For example, a **Constructivist** classroom might involve students working collaboratively on a project where they research, analyze, and present information on a chosen topic, actively constructing their own understanding.<br /><br />ii) Key factors to consider when developing a personal teaching philosophy statement include: **Values:** What are your core beliefs about education and learning? **Vision:** What kind of learning environment do you strive to create? **Learning Theories:** Which learning theories align with your beliefs and inform your practice (e.g., constructivism, behaviorism)? **Methodology:** What teaching methods will you employ to achieve your goals? **Assessment:** How will you measure student learning and growth? **Student Needs:** How will you address the diverse needs of your students? **Professional Growth:** How will you continue to develop and refine your teaching practice?<br /><br />iii) Metaphysics, the study of reality and existence, is educationally relevant because it shapes our understanding of the nature of knowledge, the purpose of education, and the relationship between the learner and the world. It influences curriculum choices by raising questions about what is worth knowing and how we know it. For example, a metaphysical perspective that emphasizes the importance of spiritual development might lead to a curriculum that includes courses on ethics, philosophy, and comparative religion.<br /><br /><br />**QUESTION TWO**<br /><br />The Socratic saying "I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think" encapsulates the essence of the Socratic method. Socrates believed that true knowledge resides within individuals and can be brought forth through guided questioning. Rather than lecturing or imparting information directly, he engaged in dialogues that challenged assumptions, exposed contradictions, and prompted critical reflection. Through a series of carefully crafted questions, he led his students to discover truths for themselves. For example, instead of defining justice, Socrates would ask a series of questions about just and unjust actions, leading the student to formulate their own understanding of justice.<br /><br /><br />**QUESTION THREE**<br /><br />i) According to Plato, knowledge is **justified true belief**. The three conditions for defining knowledge are: **Belief:** The individual must genuinely believe the proposition to be true. **Truth:** The proposition must actually be true, corresponding to reality. **Justification:** The belief must be supported by adequate reasons or evidence.<br /><br />ii) The **coherence theory of truth** states that a belief is true if it coheres or fits logically with a larger system of beliefs. For example, a scientific theory is considered true if it is consistent with other established scientific principles. The **correspondence theory of truth**, on the other hand, states that a belief is true if it corresponds to an objective reality. For example, the statement "the cat is on the mat" is true if and only if there is a cat and a mat, and the cat is indeed located on the mat.<br /><br /><br />**QUESTION FOUR**<br /><br />i) Epistemology, the study of knowledge, underpins various subjects in Kenyan secondary schools. **History** relies on epistemological considerations regarding the validity of historical sources and the interpretation of evidence. **Sciences** depend on epistemological principles related to observation, experimentation, and the formation of scientific theories. **Mathematics** involves exploring the nature of mathematical truth and the methods of mathematical proof. **Literature** engages with questions about interpretation, meaning, and the relationship between text and reader, all of which are epistemological concerns. These subjects demonstrate how the pursuit and validation of knowledge are central to the educational process.<br />