The School and Society and the Child and the Curriculum - Softcover

Though he did not coin the phrase "Progressive Education," American philosopher and psychologist, John Dewey, has historically been associated with this modern educational method. In these two works, "The School and Society" and "The Child and Curriculum," Dewey lays out his philosophies of pragmatism, educational reform, and his advocacy of democracy. In a time when education focused primarily on rote memorization and passive acquisition of knowledge, Dewey advocated a "learning by doing" method. He believed students would become more well-rounded, productive members of society through their natural inquisitiveness, and experimentation through interaction with the world. Dewey's complex and naturalistic theories were primary influences in both education and social reform in the twentieth century. Furthermore, he has become known as one of the founders of the philosophy of pragmatism and functional psychology. Today, his work is still a valuable source of information and inspiration to those interested in the education and development of school-age children.

This timeless book contains two John Dewey classics: "The School and Society" and "The Child and the Curriculum." Both books reflect Dewey's style: concise and to the point. This text focuses on the effects and the power that teachers should have in affecting student lives. There is much discussion on Dewey's classic "educative" experiences and how education should be hands-on learning. In "The Child and the Curriculum," Dewey asserts that curriculum should emulate real life challenges and "occupations" of everyday life. Learning occurs in doing and not in repeating facts and figures on multiple-choice tests. It also continues to show why coursework should not be limited to multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and other methods of factoid memorization but rather coursework should include the exploration of skill-sets and also how the curriculum should provide a catalyst for knowledge and skill exploration. Like most Dewey books, "The School and Society" and "The Child and the Curriculum" should be required reading for all education programs and for all educators. Considered by many to be the only true American philosopher, Dewey once again provides a clear look at why education in America is sub-par in quality and effectiveness.