Student-centered philosophies are another essential philosophy that educators should

be aware of. By focusing on the needs of students, teachers are able to assist and
teach students within the classroom ensuring a higher level of student success. In this
article three types of student-centered philosophies will be discussed which are
progressivism, social reconstructionism, and existentialism.

Student-centered philosophies focus more on training individual students. These

philosophies place more emphasis on the individuality of students and helping them to
realize their potential. A student-centered classroom may be less rigid or structured,
less concerned about past teaching practices and drilling academics, and more focused
on training students for success in an ever-changing world. Students and teachers
typically decide together what should be learned, as well as how this can best be
achieved.

Progressivism is based on the positive changes and problem-solving approach that

individuals with various educational credentials can provide their students. Progressivist
educators are outcome focused and don’t simply impart learned facts. Teachers are
less concerned with passing on the existing culture and strive to allow students to
develop an individual approach to tasks provided to them.

John Jacques Rousseau (1712–1778) and John Dewey (1859–1952) are the guiding
minds of progressivism. Rousseau maintained that people are basically good and that
society is responsible for corrupting them. He supported education in nature, away from
the city and the influences of civilization, where the child’s interests (as opposed to a
written set of guidelines) would guide the curriculum.

John Dewey proposed that people learn best by social interaction and problem solvin.
Dewey developed the scientific method of problem solving and experimentalism. As a
result of the varied opinions emerging from the movement, progressivism was not
developed into a formalized, documented educational philosophy. Progressivists did,
however, agree that they wanted to move away from certain characteristics of traditional
schools. In particular, they were keen to remove themselves from the textbook-based
curriculum and the idea of teachers as disseminators of information, in favor of viewing
teachers as facilitators of thinking.

The progressivist classroom is about exploration and experience. Teachers act as

facilitators in a classroom where students explore physical, mental, moral, and social
growth. Common sights in a progressivist classroom might include: small groups
debating, custom-made activities, and learning stations. Teachers typically walk freely
among the groups, guiding them using suggestions and thought-provoking questions.

Social reconstructionism is an educational philosophy that views schools as tools to

solve social problems. Social reconstructionists reason that, because all leaders are the
product of schools, schools should provide a curriculum that fosters their development.
Reconstructionists not only aim to educate a generation of problem solvers, but also try
to identify and correct many noteworthy social problems that face our nation, with
diverse targets including racism, pollution, homelessness, poverty, and violence. Rather
than a philosophy of education, reconstructionism may be referred to as more of a
remedy for society that seeks to build a more objective social order.

Outraged at the inequity in educational opportunities between the rich and the poor,
George Counts wrote Dare the School Build a New Social Order? in 1932. He called on
teachers to educate students to prepare them for the social changes that would
accompany heightened participation in science, technology, and other fields of learning,
without compromising their cultural education. This text was important in the
development of social reconstructionist schools in the United States. For social
reconstructionists, the class becomes an area where societal improvement is an active
and measurable goal.

The reconstructionist classroom contains a teacher who involves the students in

discussions of moral dilemmas to understand the implications of one’s actions. Students
individually select their objectives and social priorities and then, with guidance from the
teacher, create a plan of action to make the change happen.

For example, a class may read an article on texting while driving and watch a
documentary on the need for awareness in school systems. In addition, a police officer
or a loved one of someone who has been affected by texting while driving may speak to
the class and describe dangerous and/or fatal events that have resulted from choosing
to text while driving. If the article, the movie, and the speaker inspire them, the students
may take on a long-term awareness project.

One group may choose to analyze the regional news coverage on texting while driving,
while another may choose to conduct a survey, analyzing student viewpoints on the
subject. Either or both groups may schedule meetings with political leaders and create
programs or legislation. Alternatively, they might create a web page and present it to the
media. All the while, the teacher advises on research techniques, writing skills, and
public communication methods, building core skills that will be applicable across a
broad range of topics.

An excellent example of social reconstructionism is the 2007 movie Freedom Writers. In

the movie the teacher was determined to get the students interested by requiring them
to write. Students were allowed to write about anything they wanted and were free to
express themselves in their journals however they pleased. The journal writing not only
taught basic writing skills; in some individual instances, it helped to bring students out of
a life of crime.

Existentialism promotes attentive personal consideration about personal character,

beliefs, and choices. The primary question existentialists ask is whether they want to
define who they are themselves, or whether they want society to define them. Although
freedom and individuality are highly valued American principles, existentialists argue
that there is an underlying message of conformity. Rather than the belief that the mind
needs to understand the universe, existentialists assume that the mind creates its
universe. Their beliefs incorporate the inevitability of death, as the afterlife cannot be
experienced personally with the current senses, focusing on the fact that the experience
we have of the world is temporary and should be appreciated as such.

Education from an existentialist perspective places the primary emphasis on students’

directing their own learning. Students search for their own meaning and direction in life
as well as define what is true and what is false, what is pleasant and satisfying, what is
unpleasant and dissatisfying, and what is right or wrong. The goal of an existentialist
education is to train students to develop their own unique understanding of life.

An existentialist classroom typically involves the teachers and school laying out what
they feel is important and allowing the students to choose what they study. All students
work on different, self-selected assignments at their own pace. Teachers act as
facilitators, directing students in finding the most appropriate methods of study or
materials, and are often seen as an additional resource, alongside books, computers,
television, newspapers, and other materials that are readily available to students.

By focusing on student-centered philosophies school systems and educators will be

able to make necessary changes to create effective and life transforming environments
for students.

Philosophies of Education: 3 Types of Student-Centered Philosophies - The Edvocate

(theedadvocate.org)

Progressivism is a very student-centered philosophy of education. Rooted in

pragmatism, the educational focus of progressivism is on engaging students in real-
world problem- solving activities in a democratic and cooperative learning environment
(Webb et. al., 2010). In order to solve these problems, students apply the scientific
method.
One of the pros of progressivism in education is that it promotes critical thinking,
creativity, and active participation. Progressives believe that education is a right and not
a privilege, so they want to make it available for all students. They also advocate for
more hands-on learning opportunities and increased funding for low-income schools.
Progressivism is a philosophy of education that emphasizes the need for students to
learn through their own experiences and be actively involved in their own learning
process.
It stresses the importance of learning by doing and encourages students to be curious
and questioning.

Progressivism also emphasizes the need for educators to be flexible and responsive to
the needs of individual students.

There are several reasons why progressivism is important in the field of education.
Emphasizes Active Learning
One of the most important aspects of progressive education is that students should be
actively involved in their own learning.
This means that students should be given opportunities to explore their own interests
and discover new things.
It also means that they should be encouraged to ask questions and think critically about
the information they are presented with.
Encourages Creativity
Creative expression is an important aspect of progressive education.
This means that students should be given opportunities to express themselves
creatively and explore their own ideas, which will help them learn in new ways with less
risk or frustration than they would otherwise experience if left unchecked by outside
influences such as parents who wantonly discourage exploration at every turn because
“you can’t do anything worthwhile.”
Innovation is essential to success.
It means that you should encourage your kids, come up with new solutions for
problems, and not be afraid of thinking outside the box!
Teaches Students How to Think, Not What to Think
One of the most important goals of progressive education is to teach students how to
think, not what to think.
This is done by encouraging them to ask questions and think critically about the
information they are presented with.
It is also important to provide them with multiple perspectives on any given issue to
develop their own opinions.
Encourages Social Interaction
Progressive education also emphasizes the importance of social interaction.
This means that students should be given opportunities to work together and interact.
It is believed that this kind of interaction is essential for learning.
Promotes Individualized Instruction
Another important aspect of progressive education is the idea of individualized
instruction.
This means that each student should be given instruction tailored to his or her own
needs and abilities.
It is believed that this kind of instruction is more effective than one-size-fits-all
instruction because it allows students to learn at their own pace and in their way.
Encourages Democratic Values
Progressive education also emphasizes the importance of democratic values.
This means that students should be taught to participate in their own governance and
make decisions about their own education.
It is believed that this kind of education will promote democratic values and citizenship.
Encourages Lifelong Learning
Finally, progressive education emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning.
This means that students should be given opportunities to continue learning even after
leaving the formal education system.
It is believed that this will help them succeed in their careers and personal lives.
Did You Know?
The progressive education movement began in the late 19th century due to the
traditional, didactic educational methods that were prevalent at the time.
Proponents of progressive education believed that students should be actively engaged
in their own learning and should be taught how to think, not just what to think.
The progressive education movement was spearheaded by John Dewey, who is
considered the father of modern education.
Dewey’s ideas about education were based on his belief that learning should be a social
process.
He believed that students should learn by doing and be allowed to explore their own
interests.
Dewey’s ideas about education were controversial at the time, but they have had a
lasting impact on the field of education. Today, many of the principles of progressive
education are still used in schools worldwide.
John Dewey, an American educator and key figure in progressivism, wanted his
students to have a democratic experience at school.
Instead of having one teacher who knew everything, there was known to stand up front
talking all day long.
According to John’s philosophy on education, he believed that the kids themselves
should be active participants during class time with opportunities for hands-on
involvement, which stressed experiential learning over preparation based solely upon
lectures or reading assignments.
How Is Progressivism Applied in the Classroom?
There is no one answer to this question, as progressivism can be applied in many ways
in the classroom, depending on the class’s particular goals and objectives.
However, some common ways in which progressivism may be applied in the classroom
include:
Student-Centered Learning
Student-centered learning is a method of instruction that focuses on the needs and
interests of individual students.
This means that the curriculum is designed to meet the needs of each student and that
students are given opportunities to direct their own learning.
Discovery Learning
Discovery learning is a revolutionary teaching method that encourages students’ natural
ability and thirst for new information.
In addition, the method emphasizes self-discovery, which means they’re given plenty of
opportunities in classrooms and outside them, exploring everything around them with
questions at hand!
Project-Based Learning
Project-based learning is an innovative method of instruction that gives your students
opportunities to work on long-term projects with real-world applications.
This means they will be able complete hands-on tasks, collaborate in groups (or even
alone), and apply what’s learned throughout the course across various disciplines!
Cooperative Learning
Cooperative learning is a classroom environment that encourages student collaboration
and competition.
In this sort, students are allowed to work on projects with their peers and learn from one
another’s mistakes or successes!
It also helps them build stronger relationships with their peers, which can also lead to
success outside of school!
Experiential Learning
Experiential learning is an exciting and engaging way for students to gain insight into
their world.
Taking part in activities, watching videos, or reading articles about topics relevant to
your course goals will give you new perspectives that can help guide future decisions!
Conclusion
While there are many essential aspects to progressivism in education, the key themes
of individualism, democracy, and social justice provide a foundation for students to
become active participants in their own learning and society.
When these principles are embedded into all levels of schooling, from early childhood
through higher education, they can create positive change in the classroom and the
world.

Social reconstructionism in education is a philosophy that aims to eliminate forms of

oppression within the educational system, such as racism, sexism, and classism. It
originated from social justice activism and has more recently been applied to academia,
specifically in public schooling.
Social-reconstructionist education. Social-reconstructionist education was based on the
theory that society can be reconstructed through the complete control of education. The
objective was to change society to conform to the basic ideals of the political party or
government in power or to create a utopian society through education.
Reconstructionists not only aim to educate a generation of problem solvers, but also try
to identify and correct many noteworthy social problems that face our nation, with
diverse targets including racism, pollution, homelessness, poverty, and violence.
Social reconstruction in education refers to a sociopolitical movement that has the goal
of transforming society through the education system. The primary objective of social
reconstructionism is to change society in ways that improve the welfare of all citizens,
with particular emphasis on helping the disadvantaged.
In the latter part of the 20th century, there was growing international concern with social
inequalities in both Western and non-Western countries. Educational opportunity was
viewed as a way to create a more balanced and fair global community.
This ideal was facilitated by other developments: a growing concern for the
environment, recognition regarding the interdependence of ecosystems and human
survival, and the spread of technology that could either increase existing disparity or
serve as a tool for a fairer distribution of educational resources.

Existentialism in education is a teaching and learning philosophy that focuses on

the student’s freedom and agency to choose their future. Existentialist educators
believe there is no god or higher power guiding their students. Thus, they encourage all
students to exercise personal agency and create their own meaning for life life.
Existentialists believe that every individual is unique and education must cater to the
individual differences. Therefore, the objective of education is to enable every individual
to develop his unique qualities, to harness his potentialities and cultivate his
individualities. Existentialism is a philosophy developed by Jean-Paul Sartre,
Kierkegaard and others. At its core it is about rejection of the idea that there is a higher
power or god controlling our destiny. With this knowledge we are liberated to make
decisions for ourselves.
Existentialism in education is a teaching and learning philosophy that focuses on the
student’s freedom and agency to choose their future. Existentialist educators believe
there is no god or higher power guiding their students. Thus, they encourage all
students to exercise personal agency and create their own meaning for life life.