An Overview of Educational Philosophies - Originally from R.S.

Zais (1976) Educational Philosophy Perennialism Philosophical Base Realism Purpose of Education Aim Role To educate Teacher helps the rational students to think person; to rationally based cultivate the on oral intellect. exposition; Explicit teaching of traditional values. To promote Teacher is the the complete authority in growth of the his/her subject; individual; to explicit teaching educate the of traditional competent values. person. To promote democratic social living. Teacher is a guide for problem solving and scientific inquiry. Nature of Education Focus on past and permanent studies.

Essentialism

Idealism, realism

Progressivism

Pragmatism

Reconstructionism Pragmatism

To improve and reconstruct society; education is for change.

Teacher serves as project director and research leader; helps students become more aware of problems confronting humankind.

Essential skills and academic subjects; mastery of concepts and principles of subject matter. Knowledge leads to growth and development; a livinglearning process; focus on active and relevant learning. Skills and subjects needed to identify and ameliorate the problems of society; learning is active and concerned with contemporary and future.