Progressivism aims to make schools more effective democratic institutions by focusing on students' interests and needs. It applies democratic and social values to the aims, curriculum, management, teaching, and the teacher's role. The curriculum is interdisciplinary and interactive, centered around human problems and affairs. Teachers act as facilitators, determining student interests to develop curriculum and guide them in learning. The progressive education movement sought to reconstruct American democracy through social and cultural reform, preparing citizens for civic participation through a more relevant, student-centered school experience.