Theories of Education: Social

Reconstructionism

Prepared by: Catherine M. Galo

Social Reconstructionism

 is a philosophy that emphasizes the

addressing of social questions and a quest to
create a better society and worldwide
democracy.
 heavily emphasizes social questions and
questions about society itself in a better
effort to create a more successful society in
the future. 
Reconstructionist

 focuses on a curriculum that highlights social

reform.

 believe that systems must be changed to

overcome oppression and improve human
conditions.
 Theodore Brameld spent a lifetime working
for personal and cultural transformation
through education. Influenced by John
Dewey's educational philosophy, Brameld
urged that schools become a powerful force
for social and political change.
 · George Counts (1889-1974) recognized
that education was the means of preparing
people for creating this new social order.
Theodore Brameld originally came up with this
theory as a reaction against World War II. He
correctly recognized the potential for either
human annihilation through technology and
human cruelty or the capacity to create a society
that was better through the use of technology
and pure human compassion. Additionally,
George Counts also recognized this as a valid
theory in preparing people for creating the new
social order.
Leading People in Social Reconstruction

 George S. Counts (1889-1974)

 Theodore Brameld (1904-1987)
 Harold Rugg (1886-1960)
 They were concerned that curriculum lacked
relevance to the real world and ignored social
problems.
 Ivan Illich (1926-2002)
 Paulo Freire (1921-1997)
 Freire wanted education to be drawn from everyday
life experiences of the learners.
(Foundations of American Education)
 Social Reconstructionist believes that
students are the critical element in bringing
about social change. They contend that
students are capable of initiating and
adapting to change especially if they are
influenced by appropriate adult role models.
 A social Reconstructionist would strive to organize the
classroom in a classless, nonsexist, and nonracist
manner. There would be less emphasis on
management and control and more focus on
community building. Conflict resolution and difference
in world views would be encouraged and reinforced.

Contributed by: Kelcey Mason

(Source: Foundations of American Education)
 
The Purpose of Schooling

 Critically examine all cultural and educational

institutions and recommended change and
reform as needed.

 To teach students and the public not to settle

for "what is" but rather to dream about what
might be.

 Prepare Students to become agents for change

Nature of the Learner

 Students are a critical element in bringing

social change.

 Students are capable of initiating and

adapting to change especially if they are
influenced by appropriate adult role
models.
Thank you for listening!!!

God Bless!!!