3.3 Pragmatism in Modern Education

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the cardinal goals of traditional African education according to Fafunwa?

To promote technological advancement

To develop character (correct)

To focus solely on academic excellence

To enhance global citizenship

What is NOT included in the curriculum identified for traditional education?

Technological curriculum (correct)

Agricultural curriculum

Social curriculum

Moral and character curriculum

Which method is NOT commonly used in indigenous education?

Demonstration

Online learning platforms (correct)

Oral methods

Limitation

Which of the following is a goal related to vocational training in traditional education?

To acquire specific vocational training Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method of evaluation in indigenous education?

Observation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of pragmatism in education?

Development of social sense and sense of duty Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes traditional education in pre-colonial Nigeria?

Community-based socialization and skill acquisition Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the goals of traditional education?

Induction into society through practical experiences Signup and view all the answers

According to Fafunwa, traditional education facilitates which of the following?

Development of abilities and attitudes beneficial to society Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of traditional education according to the provided content?

It prioritizes spiritual and moral values Signup and view all the answers

Which principle guides the traditional education system?

Functionalism Signup and view all the answers

How does traditional education approach skill development?

By enabling job-oriented learning Signup and view all the answers

In indigenous education, what role do family and community members play?

They are the primary educators, sharing specialized skills Signup and view all the answers

What does pragmatism emphasize in the realm of education?

Technical and vocational education Signup and view all the answers

How do pragmatists view the concept of truth?

As relative and man-made Signup and view all the answers

Which teaching method is highlighted as acceptable by pragmatists?

Project method Signup and view all the answers

What is one key principle of pragmatism regarding teaching methods?

Teachers should select methods based on learners' interests Signup and view all the answers

In what way does a pragmatist teacher act in the classroom?

As a friend, philosopher, and guide Signup and view all the answers

What role does experience play in the philosophy of pragmatism?

It is the only criterion for establishing truth Signup and view all the answers

How should the curriculum under pragmatism be designed?

To be child-centered and reflect real-life situations Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is associated with pragmatism in education?

Promotion of self-learning through activities Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pragmatism in Education

Pragmatism derives from the Greek word "pragma" which means activity or work, emphasizing action-based learning and experience.
Considered a humanistic philosophy, pragmatism posits that humans create their own values through activity and experience.
Truth, reality, and ethical judgments are seen as relative and established through practical experiments and the consequences of actions.
The pragmatic educational approach prioritizes technical and vocational training over liberal arts studies.

Principles of Pragmatism

Opposes fixed teaching methods; advocates for adaptive methods tailored to the learner’s interests.
Encourages self-learning and practical experience through "learning by doing."
Advocates for project-based learning as an effective teaching method.
Teachers serve as facilitators, guiding students with empathy, understanding societal changes, and addressing learners' interests.
Curriculum should be centered on real-life experiences, fostering social awareness and responsibility among students.

Pre-colonial Education in Nigeria

Indigenous or traditional education has existed in African societies, focused on imparting life skills and cultural values to the youth.
This education system predates both Islamic and Western forms of education in Nigeria, reflecting community-specific life patterns.

Traditional Education Characteristics

Education is community-driven, often taught by family and community members with specialized skills.
Emphasizes social responsibility and economic sustainability through job-oriented training.
Incorporates spiritual and moral education, aligning with community values.
Guided by functionalism, aiming to prepare individuals meaningfully for society.

Goals of Adult Education

Develop individuals who are honest, respectful, and skilled; willing to adhere to societal norms.
Seven cardinal goals of traditional African education include:
- Development of physical abilities.
- Character building.
- Inculcation of respect for elders and authority figures.
- Intellectual skill development.
- Vocational training combined with a positive work ethic.
- Fostering a sense of community belonging and participation.
- Appreciation of cultural heritage.

Curriculum of Traditional Education

Encompasses moral, social, agricultural, vocational, and physical education curricula.
Teaching methods include demonstration, imitation, play, and oral traditions, reflecting the oral culture of the communities.
Evaluation methods are observational and practical, relying on informal assessments rather than standardized tests.
Aims to provide holistic development, covering various aspects of human endeavor while recognizing both strengths and weaknesses in the system.

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Description

Explore the principles of pragmatism as it relates to education in the 19th and 20th centuries. This quiz delves into how this philosophical approach emphasizes experiential learning and practicality. Test your understanding of key concepts and thinkers associated with pragmatic education.