Teacher-Centered

Philosophies
• are essential for the longevity of education and the continued
influence of teachers in the classroom
• the teacher’s role is to impart a respect for authority,
determination, a strong work ethic, compassion for others and
sensibility.
 Teacher-Centered Philosophies

1. Essentialism
2. Perennialism
 ESSENTIALISM
• Is an educational philosophy of teaching basic skills
• This philosophy advocates training the mind
• Subjects are focused on the historical context of the material world and culture,
and move sequentially to give a solid understanding of the present day
• This philosophy stresses core knowledge in reading, writing, math, science,
history, foreign language and technology
• Tools included are lecturing, memorization, repetition, practice and assessment
• William C. Bagley (1874-1946) – one of the most influential advocated of
essentialism
 PERENNIALISM
• Is an educational philosophy that the importance of certain works transcends
time
• Sometimes referred to as “culturally conservative”, because it does not
challenge gender stereotypes, incorporate multiculturalism, or expose and
advocate technology,
• Goal of perennialist education is to teach students to think rationally and
develop minds that can think critically.
• Perennialist classroom aims to be a closely organized and well-disciplined
environment, which develops in students a lifelong quest for the truth.
• Concerned with the importance of the mastery of the content and
development of reasoning skills
Student-Centered
Philosophies
• Focusses on the needs of the students
• Teachers are to assist and teach students within the
classroom ensuring a higher level of student success
• Focus more on training individual students
 Student-Centered Philosophies
1. Progressivism
2. Humanism
3. Constructivism
 PROGRESSIVISM
• Based on the positive changes and problem-solving approach that
individuals with various educational credentials can provide their students
• Outcome focused and don’t simply impart learned facts
• Jean Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) and John Dewey (1859- 1952) are the
guiding minds of progressivism
• Progressivist classroom is about exploration and experience
• Common sights in a progressivist classroom might include; small groups
debating, custom-made activities, and learning stations
 HUMANISM
• focuses on enhancing ones innate goodness, rejects the idea of
group-oriented education, and upholds the idea of enhancing
individual development
• This philosophy also believes that students should be actively involved
with their education on all levels, and students should be able to make
choices about what they will be learning.
 CONSTRUCTIVISM
• that emphasizes hands on learning and students actively participating
in lessons
• Constructivists believe that students should be able to discover lessons on
their own through hands on activity because it is the most effect way of
learning and is considered true learning.
Thank you!