《十二年國民基本教育課程綱要》本於全人教育之精神，以「成就每一個孩子─適性揚才、終身學習」為願景進行修訂。因應此重大之教育變革，教師如有明晰之哲學理念作為指引羅盤，始不致在茫茫學海中迷失方向。《莊子》「不材之木」的寓言，蘊涵豐富之隱喻，可啟發深刻之教育哲思。本文從「無用之為大用」及「物各有所用」的觀點，闡述其所啟發之教育哲學，分為三個面向說明：一、重視「多元智能」之內涵；二、落實「適性教育」之理念；三、修養「心齋虛靜」的工夫。最後，提出結論作為實施十二年國民基本教育課程之參考。

The “12-year Basic Education Curriculum Guide” based on the spirit of holistic education is formulated with a corresponding adjustment the vision of “adaptive education and lifelong learning”. To respond to this important educational reform, if teachers have a clear philosophy as a guide, they will not lose their way. The fable of “useless woods” in the Zhuangzi is such philosophy that can provide a thought-provoking foundation for educational philosophy. This article aims to expound on educational philosophy utilizing the concepts of “the great use of uselessness” and “Everything has its own purpose.” It will be divided into three parts: First, appraisal of “multiple intelligence.” Second, implementation of “adaptive education.” Third, stay in awareness of purification. Finally, conclusions are provided as references for the implementation of the 12-year basic education curriculum.