Educational Philosophy Quiz: 4 Major Philosophies

Study Notes

Educational Philosophies

There are four main types of educational philosophies: Perennialism, Essentialism, Romanticism, and Progressivism.
A mix of more than two philosophies is called Eclecticism.

Perennialism

Values knowledge that transcends time and is a subject-centered philosophy.
The goal of a perennialist educator is to teach students to think rationally and develop minds that can think critically.
Aims to create a closely organized and well-disciplined environment, which develops in students a lifelong quest for the truth.
Believes that education should epitomize a prepared effort to make great ideas available to students and guide their thought processes.
Focuses on the importance of mastery of the content and development of reasoning skills.
Skills are developed in a sequential manner.
The teachers are the main actors on the stage.

Essentialism

Also a subject-centered philosophy that advocates for teaching basic skills.
Focuses on transmitting a series of progressively difficult topics and promoting students to the next level.
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.
A typical day at an essentialist school might have seven periods, with students attending a different class each period.
Teachers impart knowledge mainly through conducting lectures, and students are expected to take notes.
Students continue with the same daily schedule for a semester or a year, and are promoted to the next level when they show sufficient competence.

Romanticism

Believes in the natural goodness of humans, which is hindered by the urban life of civilization.
Emphasizes emotional self-awareness as a necessary pre-condition to improving society and bettering the human condition.
Focuses on differentiation, meeting the students' learning readiness needs.
There is no set curricula, no formal classes and tests, and students decide what they want to learn.
Sometimes, meetings are set-up with professionals of a field to give them insight into that topic.
The five essential characteristics of romanticism are imagination, intuition, individuality, idealism, and inspiration.

Progressivism

Believes that individuality, progress, and change are fundamental to one's education.
Centers curricula on the needs, experiences, interests, and abilities of the students.
Believes that people learn best from what they consider most relevant to their lives.

Description

Explore the four main types of educational philosophies - Perennialism, Essentialism, Romanticism, and Progressivism. Learn how these philosophies can shape your teaching philosophy and writing your teaching statement. Discover the concept of Eclecticism, which involves a mix of more than two philosophies.