MODERNISM AND POSTMODERNISM IN EDUCATION

Modernism and Postmodernism are two philosophical movements with distinct approaches to
education, reflecting their broader views on knowledge, society, and reality.

Modernism in education, rooted in the Enlightenment and the industrial revolution,

emphasizes:

 Objectivity and Universality: Modernism believes in absolute truths and universal

principles that are applicable to all. Education is seen as a means to discover and teach
these truths.
 Rationality and Science: It prioritizes scientific reasoning and empirical evidence.
Education focuses on logical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding the natural
world.
 Progress and Improvement: Modernism views education as a tool for societal progress
and individual betterment. The goal is to produce citizens who can contribute to the
advancement of society.
 Structured Learning: It favors a structured, teacher-centered approach. Curricula are
standardized, and there is a strong emphasis on discipline and order.

Postmodernism in education, emerging in the mid-20th century as a reaction to Modernism,

emphasizes:

 Subjectivity and Relativism: Postmodernism questions the existence of any universal

truth, arguing that knowledge is constructed by cultural, social, or personal contexts. It
promotes multiple perspectives and interpretations.
 Critique and Deconstruction: It challenges traditional narratives and structures, including
those in education. Postmodern educators encourage students to question and
deconstruct established norms and truths.
 Diversity and Multiculturalism: Valuing diverse voices and perspectives, Postmodernism
in education seeks to include marginalized or alternative viewpoints and narratives.
 Flexible Learning: It prefers a more student-centered approach, where learning is less
structured and more exploratory. Education is seen as a journey of self-discovery and
personal growth.

Contrasts:

 Truth and Knowledge: Modernism seeks universal truths, while Postmodernism argues
for subjective and context-dependent knowledge.
 Educational Focus: Modernism focuses on scientific and rational knowledge, while
Postmodernism encourages critical thinking and understanding multiple perspectives.
 Methodology: Modernism favors structured, teacher-centered learning, while
Postmodernism prefers flexible, student-centered approaches.
  Purpose of Education: Modernism sees education as a means to societal progress, while
Postmodernism views it as a tool for personal growth and societal critique.

Similarities:

 Influence on Education: Both have significantly influenced educational theories and

practices, shaping curricula, teaching methods, and educational goals.
 Response to Prior Conditions: Both movements emerged as responses to their historical
and cultural contexts, seeking to address perceived limitations in previous ways of
thinking.
 Focus on Betterment: Despite different approaches, both aim at bettering individuals
and society, either through progress and rationality (Modernism) or through
empowerment and critique (Postmodernism).

In summary, while Modernism and Postmodernism differ significantly in their views on truth,
knowledge, and educational methods, they both have deeply influenced how education is
understood and practiced, each reflecting broader societal and philosophical trends of their
times.