Four Philosophies: Idealism, Realism, Pragmatism, Existentialism

Abstract
The education philosophy can be broken down into four main schools of thought: Idealism,
Realism, Pragmatism and Existentialism. Each school of thought has at least one philosopher who
would be considered the forerunner of the school. Idealism, for example, is based on the early
writings of Plato. Realism is based on the thinking of Aristotle. Pragmatism s based on the
thoughts of a number of nineteenth-century American philosophers. Existentialism is based on
the writings of Jean-Paul Sartre. Each school also discusses what and how we should teach
students.

Idealism
Idealists stress the importance of learning ideas and concepts. They believe in reasoning but
question the use of scientific method and sense perception. They have the most confidence in
ideas that remain constant through time and place. When it comes to teaching students, idealists
believe in sharing ideas and great works that are universal, as well as long-lived. They believe all
students should have at least one teacher who they look up to, so they can learn cultural norms. In
the classroom, idealists put a lot of focus on lecture, discussion and imitation.

Realism
Unlike idealists, realists highly recommend the use of scientific investigation and senses in order
to learn. They put focus on the physical world, arguing that reality, knowledge and value exist
independent of the mind. This physical world is composed of matter. Realists believe that schools
should promote human rationality through observation and experimentation. A lot of
responsibility is placed on the teacher to have the right background and information. Realist
teachers believe in the importance of experimental learning. In order to learn, students have to
take a hands-on approach.

Pragmatism
Pragmatists place their focus on the idea of change. This constant change results in people having
to understand what it means to know. Pragmatists believe that knowing represents an exchange
between the leaner and the environment. They also believe that truth and values are always
changing because the people who have those values change with the surrounding environment.
For pragmatists, the most important thing for schools to teach is “how to question what we know
and how to reconstruct what we know to match the changing world” (92). They put more focus
on carefully solving problems and less on large amounts of information. They encourage problem
solving through learner-centered problems such as student investigations and activities, providing
technology and other resources, and encouraging students to collaborate with others.

Existentialism
Existentialists place their focus on the ideas of existence and essence. Individuals create their own
meaning. Finding one’s purpose becomes a lifelong goal for existentialists. They believe in the
importance of personal choice and reflection of knowledge. In school, they place importance on
“developing a free, self-actualizing person” (94). This means having students discuss their lives
and decisions they make. In the classroom, teachers place emphasis on asking questions and
discovering one’s purpose in life. Students are given the chance to define themselves through
how they live their lives.

Reflection
After reading these sections, I find myself to be a combination of two: realism and pragmatism.
As a realist, I believe it is important for students to learn while doing. I also enjoy environments
that are organized and logical. I agree that students should learn to recognize the pros and cons of
different ideas. Realists understand the importance of these within the classroom. One aspect of
pragmatism that appeals to me is the idea of how things are always changing. Ignoring this fact
would have a negative effect in classroom. Teachers should take advantage of the changes that
are occurring. It makes it easier for students to connect what they are learning to what is
happening in the real world.