John Dewey was an American philosopher and educational reformer in the early 20th century. He believed that education should be focused on practical experiences that are relevant to students' lives and that will benefit society. According to Dewey, schools should provide engaging experiences that connect students' past knowledge to the present and encourage experimental thinking. Dewey argued against traditional education that simply transmitted knowledge and instead advocated for progressive, student-centered approaches focused on experiences and social reform through education.