Philosophy of Education: Reflection on American Context

Abstract

Every profession has a philosophical tenet that guides professional development,
conduct, and performance. What separates a layman from the professional is the
understanding of how acceptable philosophy of the profession shapes professional
practices. The Australian Council of Professions defines profession as “a
disciplined group of individuals who adhere to ethical standards and who hold
themselves out as, and are accepted by the public as possessing special knowledge
and skills in a widely recognized body of learning derived from research, education
and training at a high level, and who are prepared to apply this knowledge and
exercise these skills in the interest of others1”. A profession’s philosophy provides
the framework for ethical standards upheld by the professionals and constitutes that
specialized knowledge that governs performance.