Characteristics and Aims of educational philosophy of John Dewey
Back to: Educational Studies UGC NET – Unit 1
Characteristics and Aims of educational philosophy of John Dewey
John Dewey was an American philosopher and psychologist. He was also an educationist and his impact in the field has been of great importance. Dewey was born on 20 October, 1859. He is known as the “Father of philosophy of education”. He was one of the prominent figures in founding the philosophical movement called pragmatism in the United States. He is famous for the progression of the education system in the 20th century in America.
John Dewey believed education was necessary for society. He felt that education should be about social interactions and freedom of participation in the classroom for it to be effective. It wasn’t about transmitting information to the students but teaching them the methods of acquiring information for themselves.
Characteristics of Educational Philosophy of John Dewey
According to John Dewey, learning should be done by actually doing it. The three characteristics of education by John Dewey are:
i). The Precarious
John Dewey believed everything that happens in life is natural events as human beings are a part of nature. The difficulties, danger, evilness, and kindness are all natural and uncertain. Societal values, norms and ideas of humans function in the same way. The knowledge acquired keeps changing with the changes in society.
ii). Histories
There should be necessary changes in the society for development but it should not completely drift away from the past. The modification made should relate with the past practices for the desired needs of the society.
iii). Ends and goods
Before bringing any changes, first it must be perceived if it is good for the society. The changes should be of good outcome that will help in the development of humans and society.
Aims of Educational Philosophy of John Dewey
John Dewey’s main aim was to make educational learning such that it helps in the development of humans. His other aims were:
i). Actual learning is done by practising. Dewey believed that experience is education.
ii). Education should consist of both theory and practical. The learnings should be connected with the real world.
iii). There should be social interaction and activities in the classroom and not just limited to teaching.
iv). According to John Dewey, education is not about preparing one for their future but for the present.
v). The human mind and society should keep changing and advancing with time for good.
vi). Enhancing learning with the interests of the students and making it active learning.
John Dewey has been very influential in progressive education. He changed the system of education to bring out the best potential of individuals and help in their development.
