4 Major Educational Philosophies

Every day, school leaders and educators face the task of guiding their institutions toward fostering environments that not only impart knowledge and skills but also do it correctly to produce the best results for their students and society at large. Central to this mission is the adoption of a clear and coherent educational philosophy. Articulating a school's educational philosophy then becomes a foundational element that influences every aspect of the school environment, from curriculum design to teaching methodologies, to student engagement and community involvement. Educational philosophy refers to a set of beliefs about the nature of reality, knowledge, and values that influence educational practices.

The educational philosophies have evolved over time, shaped by different historical, cultural, and social contexts. The major educational philosophies that have influenced education worldwide include idealism, realism, pragmatism, and constructivism. Each philosophy has its unique perspective on what education is, why it is important, and how it should be delivered.

Perennialism

Perennialism is an educational philosophy that values ideas and knowledge that have stood the test of time.

Perennialists believe that education should be focused on the acquisition of knowledge and the development of critical thinking skills. They are primarily concerned with the importance of mastery of the content and the development of reasoning skills. Perennialists believe that education should be focused on the great works of literature, history, and philosophy that have shaped human civilization. They argue that these works contain timeless truths and values that are essential for the intellectual and moral development of students. Perennialists also believe in the importance of discipline, structure, and order in education.

Perennialism has been influential in the development of many private schools and universities worldwide. For instance, the Great Books programs are based on the perennial philosophy. These programs emphasize the study of great works of literature, philosophy, and history that have shaped human civilization.

Essentialism

The essentialism educational philosophy emphasizes the core knowledge and skills that are essential for success in the modern world. Essentialists believe that education should be focused on the basics of reading, writing, mathematics, and science. They argue that these subjects provide the foundation for all other knowledge and skills.

Essentialists believe that education should be focused on the acquisition of knowledge and skills that are essential for success in the modern world. They argue that students should be taught the basics of reading, writing, mathematics, and science before they can pursue other subjects.

Essentialism has been influential in the development of many public schools worldwide. For instance, the No Child Left Behind Act, which was enacted in the United States in 2001, is based on the essentialist philosophy. The act emphasizes the importance of basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, and requires schools to measure student achievement in these subjects.

Progressivism

The Progressivism educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of student-centered approaches and active learning. Progressivists believe that education should focus on individual students' needs and interests. They argue that students learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process.

Progressivism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the traditional methods of education that emphasized discipline, structure, and order. Progressivists believe that education should be student-centered, emphasizing the interests and needs of individual students. They argue that students should be encouraged to explore their interests, develop their creativity, and work collaboratively with others.

Progressivism has been influential in the development of many alternative schools worldwide. Montessori schools and Waldorf schools are based on the progressive philosophy. These schools emphasize active learning, hands-on experiences, and student-centered approaches.

Reconstructionism

Reconstructionism is an educational philosophy that emphasizes the importance of social reform and social change. Reconstructionists believe that education should be focused on preparing students to become active and responsible citizens who can contribute to social progress and social justice. They argue that education should be based on the needs of society and that students should be prepared to address the social problems of their time.

Reconstructionism emerged in the 1930s as a response to the social and economic problems of the Great Depression. Theodore Brameld, who lived from 1904 to 1987, established social reconstructionism as a response to the events of World War II. He believed that humanity had the potential to either destroy itself through technology and cruelty or to create a better society through technology and compassion. And this could be done through proper education. Reconstructionists believe that education should be focused on the needs of society, emphasizing the social, political, and economic problems that need to be addressed. They argue that students should be prepared to think critically, analyze social problems, and work collaboratively to address them.

Reconstructionism has been influential in the development of many progressive schools and universities worldwide. For instance, the Paulo Freire Institute in Brazil is based on the reconstructionist philosophy. Freire believed that education should be focused on developing critical consciousness and empowering individuals to become agents of social change.

References

Gutek, G.L. (2010). Historical and philosophical foundations of education: A biographical introduction (5th ed.)

Hirst, P.H., & Peters, R.S. (1970). The Logic of Education. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203138557

Eisner, E. (2001). What does it mean to say a school is doing well?

Bailey, R., Carr, D., Barrow, Robin (2010). The SAGE Handbook of Philosophy of Education

Ornstein, A. C., & Hunkins, F. P. (2013). Curriculum: Foundations, principles, and issues (6th ed.). Pearson.

Pinar, W. F. (1975). Curriculum theorizing: The reconceptualists. Curriculum Inquiry, 5(4), 219-240.