Theories of Education: Progressivism
• Read the article “Philosophical Perspectives on Education” in Course Materials, paying closer attention to pages 30-40 (the section with the heading “Five Main Theories of Education”).
• You can also click on the links in the syllabus, which focus on similar information and may provide you with another resource.
• Choose one of the theories/philosophies discussed in the article: perennialism, essentialism, progressivism, reconstructionism, and critical theory.
• After reading the educational theory/philosophy that you have chosen, discuss the following:
o In your own words, summarize the theory/philosophy (two or three sentences).
o From your perspective, in what ways do you (or don’t you) see this philosophical underpinning reflected in schools today? Give examples...
Please see attached documents
Theories of Education: Progressivism
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Theories of Education: Progressivism
Progressivism is rooted in the philosophy of pragmatism, which holds that reality depends on what we observe and experience. The framers of the theory intended to provide a credible and lasting solution to the education challenges and needs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries (Tan, 2006). As such, the theory does not conform to a curriculum because the theorists believe that reality keeps changing. Therefore, it aims to prepare and equip students with the skills to cope with an ever-changing environment.
Progressivism is clearly reflected in many schools in the United States today, especially when one considers that it was specifically tailored for students in the country. The fact that the country is democratic makes the theory even more relevant. This is because it aims to prepare students to participate in a democracy. I...