Discuss

Philosophies of Education

The five dominant philosophies that have informed reform movements in education are Essentialism, Perennialism, Progressivism, Social Reconstruction/critical theory, and Existentialism. Essentialism is a philosophy created by William Bagley and the focus of study was, core knowledge that students need to be educated citizens. Teachers are the central figures in the classroom, transferring their knowledge to students. Perennialism is a philosophy created by Mortimer Alder and the focus of study is enduring ideas found in great works of literature and art. The teacher’s role is to engage in extended dialogue with students, discussing and reasoning about the great ideas. Progressivism is a philosophy created by John Dewey and the focus is the integration of study with real-life experiences through active learning, problem solving, and experimentation. This means that teachers structure the learning activities and encourage their students to explore the ideas that arise. Teachers can vary the curriculum to meet the needs of all their students. Social reconstruction/critical theory is a philosophy in which schooling promotes social and political reform by focusing on social problems and the need for change. Lastly, existentialism is a philosophy in which students choose their own course of study as part of them trying to find their place in the world and the meaning of their lives. Teachers support their students in exploring their own interests.

I did have a progressive educational experience. The philosophies that closely align with my education are Progressivism and Social Reconstruction/critical theory. I felt that our school district really made sure that us the students spoke out whenever we felt that there was social or political injustice. For example, in June a group of students that were currently attending or had graduated from Paramus High School, put together and held a Black Lives Matter Protest where people came together and walked, have everyone kneel on one leg for 8 minutes, and had guest speakers and students to openly speak about their stories of experiencing injustice in their lives to demand change. The school’s curriculum I felt was varied to match the needs and interests of their students. I also think that in each class I took it wasn’t all about reading out of a textbook or sitting and writing notes. I felt that I had learned better because when studying in class we got to do group activities where we got to speak with other peers, we got to go on a Philly trip to go to museums to get an outside of class perspective, etc. While I did have a progressive education, I do think that my education was also dominated by the current standards-based movement. I think that the way my teacher’s ran their classes was that they transferred their knowledge to us and let us know that they were the central figure.