Philosophy in education - Essay Example

Philosophy in Education The traditional definition of the words liberal and conservative ultimately can be understood as a fundamental breakdown in understanding with regards to whether new ways should be employed or whether the old ways are still the best means of accomplishing a given task. In the same way, the field of education represents the “liberal” and “conservative” views regarding whether perennialism or progressivism is the best approach towards engaging students with a given topic.

Perennialism can be understood to be the “conservative” approach in that it argues that the same tried and true methods and subject matter should continue to be taught to the next generation of students do the fact that it is both tried and true and has informed the preceding generations. On the other hand, progressivism takes the more “liberal” approach in positing that individuality, progress, and change are key cornerstones of a truly great education (Labaree 281). Naturally, he progressivists approach to education has been largely informed by many sociological, anthropological, educational, and psychological breakthroughs of the 21st century.

If one were to choose to follow a strictly perennialist approach to education, a very formulaic approach would ensue; one that placed a high level of emphasis on utilizing the relevant and historical primary texts that have informed education and thought throughout the centuries. For instance, a class on music would be taught focusing upon classical music theory, the works of Brahms, Bach, and Beethoven, and healthy amount of analysis and discussion of the symphony and the role of chamber groups.

In this way, contemporary writings or the introduction of new material, rock n roll, jazz, or even swing music would likely not be included. It is the belief of this particular student that the best approach is thereby the progressivist approach. Due to the fact that our world continues to change at such an alarming rate, focusing solely and single-mindedly upon a strict interpretation of classical texts, and the ways in which knowledge has been inferred for hundreds even thousands of years may not be an appropriate way to better the learning understanding of the pupils involved in the process.

Although the progressivists also exhibit some shortcomings, it is the belief of this author that such an approach could better inform the next generation of open minded professionals with regards to the key information they should seek to retain. Work CitedLabaree, David F. "Progressivism, Schools And Schools Of Education: An American Romance." Paedagogica Historica 41.1/2 (2005): 275-288. Academic Search Complete. Web. 10 Feb. 2013.