Philosophers in the Classroom
Paper instructions:
Philosophies of education are important for teachers to understand, as these philosophies will guide a teacher’s educational beliefs, practices, and decisions. Early childhood education standards, such as the 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer NAEYC Standards, are informed by well-researched educational philosophies. In order to develop a philosophical stance you will need to compare the different philosophies.
For this assignment, utilize resources found in the GCU Library to complete the “Early Childhood Educational Philosophies” template. Describe four main philosophies of education – perennialism, progressivism, essentialism, and reconstructionism – and at least one philosopher who influenced the development of the philosophy, and the timeframe in which it was developed. Be sure to include the following:
A description for each of the philosophies of education (origin, proponents, and main tenets).
A philosopher associated with each philosophy and the timeframe in which it was developed.
How each philosophy aligns with NAEYC standards and the child-centered approach.
Below the chart, write a 250-500 word reflection discussing one of the philosophies, and how it applies to the foundation of teaching practice.
Support your reflection with 2-3 scholarly references.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the Ace homework tutors – APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
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Topic 2 Participation
Philosophies of Education and Their Influence in Early Childhood Classrooms
Perennialism
Originating in the 1930s-1940s, perennialism is characterized by its emphasis on traditional liberal arts subjects such as literature, mathematics, science and philosophy (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Perennialists believe these timeless disciplines best cultivate the intellect and prepare students for their role as citizens (Chambliss, 1996). A key figure of this philosophy was Robert Hutchins, who as president of the University of Chicago in the 1930s-1940s championed the Great Books approach to education (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Perennialism aligns with NAEYC’s focus on developing critical thinking skills through problem solving, reasoning and inquiry (NAEYC, 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). A perennialist teacher would provide early learners varied exposure to classic works and encourage discussion to foster these higher-order thinking abilities.
Progressivism
Emerging in the late 19th century, progressivism was championed by influential educators John Dewey and Maria Montessori (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Progressivists believe education should be experiential and focus on the whole child, with learning arising from personal experiences and interactions with the physical environment (Chambliss, 1996). Dewey in particular emphasized democratic principles, collaborative learning and real-world problem solving (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Progressivism aligns well with NAEYC’s emphasis on active, hands-on engagement and using developmental, culturally sensitive practices to support all domains of a child’s growth (NAEYC, 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). A progressive early childhood classroom would provide open-ended, child-directed activities and diverse learning centers.
Essentialism
Developing in the 1930s-1950s in response to perceived excesses of progressivism, essentialism values basic skills and traditional academic content (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Essentialists such as William Bagley stressed literacy, numeracy and citizenship as the core essentials all students need (Chambliss, 1996). Essentialism aligns with NAEYC’s focus on language and literacy development through shared book reading, writing and oral language experiences (NAEYC, 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). An essentialist early educator would structure lessons around direct instruction in foundational skills and concepts using time-tested methods and materials.
Reconstructionism
Emerging in the late 1930s, reconstructionism was influenced by philosopher John Dewey and theorist George Counts, who believed schools should actively work to reform society and empower marginalized groups (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2017). Reconstructionists see education as a tool for social change, with students learning through civic participation projects addressing real community problems (Chambliss, 1996). This philosophy aligns with NAEYC’s emphasis on inclusion, cultural relevance and engaging families as partners (NAEYC, 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). A reconstructionist early childhood classroom may organize service learning or social justice activities allowing young children to contribute to issues important to their diverse families and neighborhoods.
In reflecting on these philosophies, I find essentialism resonates most with my teaching approach and beliefs. While exposure to diverse subjects and hands-on learning have value, my priority is ensuring children establish foundational literacy and numeracy competencies in the early years. I believe a balanced curriculum incorporating both child-initiated and teacher-directed elements most comprehensively supports young learners’ optimal development (NAEYC, 2009). Direct instruction provides the structured practice and repetition essential skills demand, complemented by open-ended choices allowing children agency over their education (Copple & Bredekamp, 2009). An eclectic approach drawing from multiple philosophies seems most prudent for meeting individual students where they are and challenging all to reach their highest potential.
Chambliss, J. J. (1996). Philosophy of education: An encyclopedia. Taylor & Francis.
Copple, C., & Bredekamp, S. (Eds.). (2009). Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8. National Association for the Education of Young Children. custom essay writing service.
NAEYC. (2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). NAEYC standards for early childhood professional preparation. National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Ornstein, A. C., & Hunkins, F. P. (2017). Curriculum: Foundations, principles, and issues (7th ed.). Pearson.
