2. An introduction to progressivism
The Progressive education philosophy was
established in America from the mid
1920s through the mid 1950s. John
Dewey was its foremost proponent. One
of his tenets was that the school should
improve the way of life of our citizens
through experiencing freedom and
democracy in schools. Shared decision
making, planning of teachers with
students, student-selected topics are all
aspects. Books are tools, rather than
authority.
3. Major Beliefs, Values, Practices
Emphasis on learning by doing-
hands on
Integrated Curriculum focused on
thematic units
Strong emphasis on problem solving
and critical thinking
Group work is emphasized
Assessment by evaluation of child’s
projects and productions
4. Progressivism (according to
Dewey, Kilpatrick, Childs)
Education should be life itself, not
a preparation for living
Learning should be directly
related to the interests of the
child
The teachers role is not to direct
but to advise
The school should encourage
cooperation rather than
5. Curriculum content is derived from
student interests and questions.
Insists that education must be a
continuous reconstruction of living
experience based on activity directed by
the child
Example
In a Preschool classroom have themes ,
which are implemented around the
subjects students are learning, most of
the learning/activities in preschool are
active and revolve around a theme many
involve games, movement, and music.
6. Despite the variations that exist among the progressive
programs throughout the country, most progressive
schools today are vitalized by these common practices:
The curriculum is more flexible and is influenced by student
interest
Teachers are facilitators of learning who encourage
students to use a wide variety of activities to learn
Progressive teachers use a wider variety of materials
allowing for individual and group research.
Progressive teachers encourage students to learn by
discovery
Progressive education programs often include the use of
community resources and encourage service-learning
projects.
7. Insight into Progressivism
Pros
Educates the “whole child” and includes
physical and emotional development
Student is an active participant in their
learning
Students learning by doing is the key
approach
Promotes active engagement and thinking
for themselves
8. Insight Continued
Cons
This philosophy does not favor a routine
(as teachers who work with students with
disabilities, this is a very important part of
their school experience)
May not prepare children for state and
district-wide testing
