An Overview of Educational Philosophy: Theories and Concepts

Philosophy of education is the study of the purpose, nature, and ideals of education. It is a field that explores different theories and concepts of education, which help in shaping the education system that we have today. The educational philosophies have been developed over time by renowned philosophers and theorists who have contributed to the development of the education system. In this article, we will discuss various educational philosophies, their theories, and concepts.

Theories and Concepts of Educational Philosophy:

1. Perennialism:

The Perennialism philosophy suggests that education should focus on the enduring ideas of human civilization. It emphasizes the continuation of the classics such as literature, philosophy, and history as the foundation of education. The primary objective of Perennialism is to teach students how to think critically in a world with ever-changing problems. This philosophy encourages students to ask questions and seek answers through critical thinking.

2. Essentialism:

The Essentialism philosophy holds that the purpose of education is to impart essential knowledge and skills to develop productive members of society. This philosophy emphasizes on core academic subjects like math, language, and science, which prepare students for the real world. It is a very traditional approach to education that emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge over skills or application.

3. Progressivism:

The Progressivism philosophy suggests that education is a tool that can be used to reform and improve society. This philosophy is centered around the principle of learning by doing, which means that students learn best when they perform educational activities themselves. This philosophy calls for hands-on, experiential learning opportunities, and emphasizes the individuality of students.

4. Social Reconstructionism:

The Social Reconstructionism philosophy suggests that education should be used to create a more equal and Just society. This philosophy stresses on the importance of social justice, diversity, and equality as essential components of education. The primary objective of Social Reconstructionism is to train students to become change agents in their community by making them aware of social injustices and encouraging them to solve social problems.

The philosophy of education covers various theories and concepts that help in shaping the education system. The educational philosophies have been developed over time by renowned philosophers and theorists, and there are several of them. The article discussed four of the educational philosophies, namely Perennialism, Essentialism, Progressivism, and Social Reconstructionism. Each philosophy has its own unique approach to education and its own benefits. The education system today incorporates various aspects of these philosophies, providing students with holistic and comprehensive education.