Educational Philosophy and Principles Flashcards

Which philosopher believed that children learn best through hands-on experience and that education should connect to real-life problems?

Answer: John Dewey

John Dewey (Pragmatism) championed experiential learning — children learn by doing and education should be grounded in real experience.

Essentialism as an educational philosophy emphasizes:

Answer: Teaching a core body of essential knowledge and skills all students should master

Essentialism holds that there is a core body of essential knowledge and skills that all students should learn, regardless of personal interest.

The concept of 'tabula rasa' (blank slate) in education was proposed by:

Answer: John Locke

John Locke proposed that the mind at birth is a blank slate (tabula rasa) and all knowledge comes from sensory experience.

Which educational philosophy holds that schools should work to reform society and address social inequalities?

Answer: Reconstructionism

Reconstructionism (or Social Reconstructionism) argues that education should be an instrument of social reform and justice.

Lev Vygotsky's 'Zone of Proximal Development' (ZPD) refers to:

Answer: The gap between what a student can do independently and what they can do with guidance

The ZPD is the range of tasks a student cannot yet do alone but can accomplish with appropriate support (scaffolding) from a teacher or more capable peer.

Which of the following BEST describes the Perennialist philosophy of education?

Answer: Education should focus on timeless, universal truths and great works of human thought

Perennialism holds that education should focus on the permanent, enduring truths of humanity as found in classical literature, philosophy, and the great books.