The Significance of the Essentialist Movement in Educational Theory
These remarks explore the foundational principles of the Essentialist perspective on education. The essay contrasts the Essentialist emphasis on the transmission of societal heritage and mastery of essential knowledge with the Progressive focus on individual experiences and adaptability. Highlighting the historical context of educational trends, the author critiques the perceived weakening of academic rigor in American schools and defends the role of structured, disciplined learning as a cornerstone for both individual and societal progress. This thought-provoking piece is essential for those interested in educational philosophy, history, and the ongoing debate over traditional versus progressive teaching methods.
These remarks explore the foundational principles of the Essentialist perspective on education. The essay contrasts the Essentialist emphasis on the transmission of societal heritage and mastery of essential knowledge with the Progressive focus on individual experiences and adaptability. Highlighting the historical context of educational trends, the author critiques the perceived weakening of academic rigor in American schools and defends the role of structured, disciplined learning as a cornerstone for both individual and societal progress. This thought-provoking piece is essential for those interested in educational philosophy, history, and the ongoing debate over traditional versus progressive teaching methods.
These remarks explore the foundational principles of the Essentialist perspective on education. The essay contrasts the Essentialist emphasis on the transmission of societal heritage and mastery of essential knowledge with the Progressive focus on individual experiences and adaptability. Highlighting the historical context of educational trends, the author critiques the perceived weakening of academic rigor in American schools and defends the role of structured, disciplined learning as a cornerstone for both individual and societal progress. This thought-provoking piece is essential for those interested in educational philosophy, history, and the ongoing debate over traditional versus progressive teaching methods.
William C. Bagley.
Prepared for the Fifth Annual Foreign-Language Conference, New York University, November 19, 1938.