Comparing Dewey and Mead

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Critical Reflection Paper I Rokhsana Vyajkora EFND521 July 12, 2013 Dr. Pellegrino ABSTRACT Traditional forms of public schooling were opposed by the movement of Progressive education. The advocates of this movement were taking a stance against the traditional teacher lead classroom. It advocated the need for children to experience their learning through hands on projects and collaboration amongst others. In comparing the philosophy of John Dewey with the philosophy of Jesuit Education, it has proven Dewey to have been a strong opponent of the traditional forms of public schooling. This has also impacted the children during the progressive era. Critical Reflection I Jesuit education focuses on making people better equipped to become active members of their society. It targets not only the intellectual growth that is needed to succeed, but also the moral and spiritual growth of a person. This philosophy fosters the notion of educating people to become well-rounded individuals. Jesuit education wants to instill in their students the importance of setting a purpose for living. In examining this philosophy, Jesuit education wants to give their students the knowledge and skills that are necessary to live fulfilling lives. The experiences that people live through are what makes them who they are in the present time. Having the ability to reflect on your past experiences is what builds one’s character. Jesuit education does value the knowledge that the traditional schools focus on; however, this philosophy is in part an extension of it. It is advocating for the child’s character as a whole person, not just the mind. John Dewey was a leader during the Progressive era and was a proponent of Jesuit education. Dewey disagreed with those that sought efficiency in education. He believed in having the child involved in their own learning. When a classroom is
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