UNIT-II WESTERN PHILOSOPHIES AND EDUCATION
BELIEFS OF TRADITIONAL PHILOSOPHY:
1) Education is
reasonably authoritarian and
hierarchical. 2) The
curriculum is
subject-centered. 3) Emphasis is on content in the
process. 4) Knowledge and accuracy are essential.
5) Rationality and the consideration of factual evidence should predominate 6) Recognition
of right and wrong. 7) There should be a product 8) The product, or knowledge of content, should be objectively tested or
measured. 9) Choice between different curricula and/or different types of school is essential to maximize individual
strengths.
BELIEFS OF PROGRESSIVE PHILOSOPHY:
1)
Education is egalitarian. 2) It is child-centered and relevant, 3) Emphasis is
on
skills. 4) Experience, experiment and understanding are more important. 5) Creativity and
feelings are more important than facts. 6) Criteria provide a framework for subjective
assessment or tasks based on skills. 7) Co-operation gets the priority 8) Entitlement for all
replaces choice and differentiation; equal opportunities can be used to construct equality of
result. The traditionalists believe that the purpose of education is to pass on a body of
knowledge (both factual and cultural) to future generations; the progressive believe that
the purpose of education is to change attitudes and values, to construct a politically correct
secular and socialist society. The progressives give particular attention to English, History
and Research, because these subjects have enormous cultural importance.
skills. 4) Experience, experiment and understanding are more important. 5) Creativity and
feelings are more important than facts. 6) Criteria provide a framework for subjective
assessment or tasks based on skills. 7) Co-operation gets the priority 8) Entitlement for all
replaces choice and differentiation; equal opportunities can be used to construct equality of
result. The traditionalists believe that the purpose of education is to pass on a body of
knowledge (both factual and cultural) to future generations; the progressive believe that
the purpose of education is to change attitudes and values, to construct a politically correct
secular and socialist society. The progressives give particular attention to English, History
and Research, because these subjects have enormous cultural importance.
IDEALISM
Idealism
as a philosophy had its greatest impact during the nineteenth century. Its influence
in today’s world is less important than it has been in the past..Idealism is
the conclusion that the universe
is expression of
intelligence and will,
that the enduring substance
of the world is the nature of the mind, that the material is explained by the mental. Idealism as a philosophy stands in contrast
with all those systems of thought that center in nature (naturalism) or
in man (humanism)." According to idealism "to be" means to be experienced by a person. Idealism holds that
the order of the world is due to the manifestation
in space and time of an eternal and spiritual reality. As to knowledge,
idealism holds that knowledge is man thinking the thoughts and purposes of this
eternal and spiritual reality as they
are embodied in our world of fact. As to ethics, idealism holds that the goodness of man's individual and social life is the
conformity of the human will with the moral
administration of the universe.
1. The mind is the principle of explanation and knowledge
of any-thing, even of the mind itself, is a
product of the mind.
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2. The mind is of a different nature
than matter. It is composed of a different substance.
3.
There can be no object without a subject thinking about it
Definition and meaning of Idealism
The
main tenant of idealism is that ideas and knowledge are the truest reality.
Many things in the world change, but ideas and knowledge are
enduring. Idealism was often referred
to as “idea-ism”. Idealists believe that ideas can change lives. The most
important part of a person is the mind. It
is to be nourished and developed.
Pronunciation:
[I-'dee-ê-liz-êm]Definition: (1) (From "idea") The
Platonic theory that
ultimate reality lies in a realm beyond the real world,
that the real world is a by-product of mental
or supernatural states; art that rejects realism for the world of
imagination. (2) (From
"ideal") the practice
of living according
to a set of
ideals;
overly optimistic hopefulness.
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF IDEALISM.
I.
Idealists believe that spiritual world is real and the ultimate truth whereas
the material world is transitory and mortal.
II. They
hold that the order of the world is due to the manifestation in space and time of
an eternal and spiritual reality.
III. To
them, ideas are the ultimate reality. They are eternal and unchanging.
IV. To
idealists man is more important than material nature. It is because man can think
and experience about material objects.
V. The
spiritual or cultural environment is an environment of man's own making. It is a
product of man's creative activity.
VI.
Idealism believes in spiritual values. They are Truth, Beauty and Goodness. The
realization
of these values is the realization of God.
VII.
Idealists give full support to the principle of unity in diversity.
VIII. To
them God is the Supreme Force which is omnipotent and omnipresent.
IX.
Idealists insist upon the fullest development of the personality of an
individual. Human personality is of supreme value and constitutes the
noblest work of God.
IDEALISM AND AIMS OF EDUCATION
The
following are the aims of education according to the philosophy of Idealism:
Self Realization
Idealism considers
self-realization as an important aim of education. Self-realization involves full knowledge of the self. The aim of
education is to enable man to become his truest self. Human personality
is of supreme value and constitutes the noblest work of God every individual life has got the possibility of
becoming a perfect pattern after his own self. According to Ross,
"The aim of education is the exaltation of personality or
self-realization, the making actual or real
the highest Potentialities of the self."
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Spiritual Development
To idealism the aim of education is to develop the child
mentally, morally and
spiritually, Teacher should so organize education as to develop the child spiritually.
To them truth, beauty and goodness should be encouraged more and more. The
more an individual realizes these ideals the more spiritually enlightened he will be.
spiritually, Teacher should so organize education as to develop the child spiritually.
To them truth, beauty and goodness should be encouraged more and more. The
more an individual realizes these ideals the more spiritually enlightened he will be.
Character Formation
To
develop morality in man is an important aim of education. Man is essentially a
moral being. Idealism emphasizes character building and character formation. The process
of education must lead to the deepest spiritual insight to the highest moral and spiritual
conduct.
moral being. Idealism emphasizes character building and character formation. The process
of education must lead to the deepest spiritual insight to the highest moral and spiritual
conduct.
Preparation for Holy Life
To
Froebel "The object of education is the realization of a faithful, pure
and holy life."
Idealists uphold that
education should create
such conditions and
provide an environment
which is conducive to the development of spiritual values in a child. Good ideals
will lead a child towards self-realization and prepare him for a holy life.
Preservation and Enrichment of Cultural
Heritage
To
idealists the aim of education is to acquaint the child with the cultural
heritage so
that he conserves, promotes and transmits it to the next generation. Our cultural heritage is
of great value and worth. This cultural treasure belongs to the whole humanity and it is the
purpose of education to preserve, develop and transmit it in all comers of the world.
that he conserves, promotes and transmits it to the next generation. Our cultural heritage is
of great value and worth. This cultural treasure belongs to the whole humanity and it is the
purpose of education to preserve, develop and transmit it in all comers of the world.
Intellectual and Physical Development
The aim
of education is to ensure the intellectual development and rationality of the child so
that he may develop his innate and creative powers and thereby achieve his goal
and seek
adjustment with the environment. The aim of education is to ensure physical
development of the child also. Sound mind lives in a sound body. Physically
developed students can easily achieve their goals of life.
To develop the Feeling of Integrity
Idealists
give full support to the principle of unity in diversity. They believe that implicit
in all the diversities is an essential unity. This implicit unifying factor is
of spiritual nature. The underlying divine force is God which is
omnipotent and omnipresent.
On the
basis of caste, sex, colour and religion there are differences in the society,
but God is present in all humanity. Feeling of unity is
developed among the students through education.
Development of Moral Values
The aim
of education is to develop morality in students. Education should develop the will
power of the child so that he may be able to follow the good and avoid evil.
This power
can be developed by the correct appreciation of truth, goodness and beauty
which are the highest moral values.
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Univerzalisation of Education
Idealism is in favour of
univerzalisation is of education so that an ideal society may be established. Every child must have an access to
education. In idealistic society, no exception
should be made in the education of children. It should be universal because all
human beings are equally the
children of God.
CRITICISMS OF IDEALISM
Idealism
has been influential in education for a considerable amount of time. It is
considered a conservative philosophy because of its emphasis in preserving cultural
traditions. The strengths of idealism include encouraging thinking and cognition, promoting
cultural learning, and providing for character development of students. Teachers are
considered valuable parts of the educational process who should strive to provide a
comprehensive, systematic, and holistic approach to learning that stresses self realization.
Science today has challenged idealism and brought about challenges to idealistic principles.
Science is based on hypothesis and tentativeness, but idealism promotes a finished and
absolute universe waiting to be discovered. Idealism has often been linked with traditional
religion. The weakening of religion has led to the weakening of idealism as a philosophy.
Through Plato’s ruler kings, and Augustine’s emphasis on the monastic life, it has been said
that idealism leads to intellectual elitism. In the past, education was considered important
for the upper classes of society, marking education as a luxury. Vocational and technical
studies were considered well enough for the general public. Idealistic education was
considered bookish and lacking relevance. It is argued that the character development
aspect of the philosophy involved conformity and subservience on the part of the learner.
This type of character development was considered to stifle creativity and self direction,
making students gullible and ready to accept ideas without serious examination.
considered a conservative philosophy because of its emphasis in preserving cultural
traditions. The strengths of idealism include encouraging thinking and cognition, promoting
cultural learning, and providing for character development of students. Teachers are
considered valuable parts of the educational process who should strive to provide a
comprehensive, systematic, and holistic approach to learning that stresses self realization.
Science today has challenged idealism and brought about challenges to idealistic principles.
Science is based on hypothesis and tentativeness, but idealism promotes a finished and
absolute universe waiting to be discovered. Idealism has often been linked with traditional
religion. The weakening of religion has led to the weakening of idealism as a philosophy.
Through Plato’s ruler kings, and Augustine’s emphasis on the monastic life, it has been said
that idealism leads to intellectual elitism. In the past, education was considered important
for the upper classes of society, marking education as a luxury. Vocational and technical
studies were considered well enough for the general public. Idealistic education was
considered bookish and lacking relevance. It is argued that the character development
aspect of the philosophy involved conformity and subservience on the part of the learner.
This type of character development was considered to stifle creativity and self direction,
making students gullible and ready to accept ideas without serious examination.
NATURALISM
Naturalism
as a philosophy of education was developed in the 18th century. It is
based on the assumption that nature represents the wholeness of reality. Nature, itself, is a
total system that contains and explains all existence including human beings and human
nature. According to naturalists the material and the physical world is governed by certain
laws, and man, who is the creator of the material world, must submit to it. It denies the
existence of anything beyond nature, behind nature and other than nature such as
supernaturalism. In terms of epistemology or theory of knowledge, naturalists highlight the
value of scientific knowledge. Francis Bacon emphasizes the inductive method for acquiring
the scientific knowledge through specific observation, accumulation and generalisation. He
also lays emphasis on the empirical and experimental knowledge. Naturalists also lay stress
on sensory training as senses are the gateways to learning. To naturalists, values arise from
the human beings' interaction with the environment. Instincts drives and impulses need to
based on the assumption that nature represents the wholeness of reality. Nature, itself, is a
total system that contains and explains all existence including human beings and human
nature. According to naturalists the material and the physical world is governed by certain
laws, and man, who is the creator of the material world, must submit to it. It denies the
existence of anything beyond nature, behind nature and other than nature such as
supernaturalism. In terms of epistemology or theory of knowledge, naturalists highlight the
value of scientific knowledge. Francis Bacon emphasizes the inductive method for acquiring
the scientific knowledge through specific observation, accumulation and generalisation. He
also lays emphasis on the empirical and experimental knowledge. Naturalists also lay stress
on sensory training as senses are the gateways to learning. To naturalists, values arise from
the human beings' interaction with the environment. Instincts drives and impulses need to
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be expressed rather than repressed. According to them,
there is no absolute good or evil in the world. Values of life are created by
the human needs. The great names associated with naturalism are many but the important ones are those of Jean Jacques
Rousseau, Johann Heinrich
Pestalozzi, Herbert Spencer and Rabindra Nath Tagore.
The
meaning of the name naturalism is strongly implied in the word itself. It is
the
view point which regards the world of nature as the all in all of reality Naturalism,
commonly known as Materialism is a philosophical paradigm whereby everything can be
explained in terms of natural causes. Physical matter is the only reality -- everything can be
explained in terms of matter and physical phenomena. Naturalism, by definition, excludes
any Supernatural Agent or activity. Thus, naturalism is atheism. Naturalism's exclusion of
God necessitates moral relativism. Philosophers agree, without God there is no universe,
Naturalism is the doctrine which separates nature from God, subordinates spirit to matter
and sets up unchangeable laws as supreme’. According to this law, natures supreme, all
answers should be sought in nature and it alone can solve all the philosophical problems.
Naturalism is a term loosely applied in educational theory to systems of training that are not
dependent on schools and books but on manipulation of the actual life of educand.
view point which regards the world of nature as the all in all of reality Naturalism,
commonly known as Materialism is a philosophical paradigm whereby everything can be
explained in terms of natural causes. Physical matter is the only reality -- everything can be
explained in terms of matter and physical phenomena. Naturalism, by definition, excludes
any Supernatural Agent or activity. Thus, naturalism is atheism. Naturalism's exclusion of
God necessitates moral relativism. Philosophers agree, without God there is no universe,
Naturalism is the doctrine which separates nature from God, subordinates spirit to matter
and sets up unchangeable laws as supreme’. According to this law, natures supreme, all
answers should be sought in nature and it alone can solve all the philosophical problems.
Naturalism is a term loosely applied in educational theory to systems of training that are not
dependent on schools and books but on manipulation of the actual life of educand.
Naturalism is
an artistic movement
advocating realistic description:
in art or literature, a movement or school advocating factual or
realistic description of life, including its
less pleasant aspects. In literature, Naturalism has strong belief in religious
truth from nature: a belief that all
religious truth is derived from nature and natural causes, and not from revelation.
The doctrine rejecting spiritual explanations of world: a system of thought that rejects all spiritual and supernatural
explanations of the world and holds that science is the sole basis of what can be known.
Naturalism
as a philosophy of education has exercised a great influence on the
theory and practice of education. It decries all external restraint and it necessary formalities.
The naturalistic system of education there is no place for classrooms, text-books,
timetables, Curriculum, formal lessons or examinations. The teacher has to play the role of
acquainting children with their natural environment; External discipline is altogether out of
place. The only discipline is the discipline of natural consequences. Naturalism believes that
formal education is the invention of society which is artificial. Good education can be
possible only through direct contact with nature. Naturalism in education has the following
common themes:
theory and practice of education. It decries all external restraint and it necessary formalities.
The naturalistic system of education there is no place for classrooms, text-books,
timetables, Curriculum, formal lessons or examinations. The teacher has to play the role of
acquainting children with their natural environment; External discipline is altogether out of
place. The only discipline is the discipline of natural consequences. Naturalism believes that
formal education is the invention of society which is artificial. Good education can be
possible only through direct contact with nature. Naturalism in education has the following
common themes:
1. Look to nature and to human nature,
as part of the natural order, for the purposes of education.
2. The key to understanding nature is
through the senses. Sensation is the basis of our knowledge of reality.
3. Because nature's processes are slow,
gradual and evolutionary, our education' also should be steady.
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Naturalism and Organization of Education
According
to naturalists, the existence of school is a natural necessity. All of us know that man IS the most
dependent creature of God as compared to other animals because of the long period of infancy of the child and its
consequent dependence on adults. The offspring of other animals have
negligible periods of infancy whereas the human offspring requires a few years
even to perform simple functions of day-to-day living. Because of this important dimension of the dependency nature of
man, education becomes an urgent necessity and
so do educational
institutions like the
school. Naturalism attaches
less importance to the existence of formal school and text-hooks because
it hinders the natural development of
children. For Rousseau "Everything is good as it comes from the hands of author of nature, but everything degenerates in
the hands of man". According to him nature is the only pure, clean and ennobling influence.
Human
society is thoroughly corrupt. Therefore man should be freed from the
bondage of society; and he should be enabled to live in the "state of nature". Human nature
is essentially good and it must be given fullest opportunities for free development in a free
atmosphere. Gandhi's philosophy of education is also naturalistic in setting as he believes in
the essential goodness of child's nature. According to him, children should be educated in
an atmosphere of freedom - freedom from superimposed restriction and interferences. His
main emphasis is on activity or learning by doing and shows aversion to artificiality and
pedantry. Being a naturalist, he attempts to liberate education from the four walls of
classroom and wishes it to be given in a wider sphere of the natural surroundings of the
child. The school to the naturalist is in no way different from the home; Frobel called the
school as kindergarten or garden for children whereas Montessori calls it Case-de-Bambini
or home for the children. According to Prestalozzi, there should be no difference between
the school and home.
bondage of society; and he should be enabled to live in the "state of nature". Human nature
is essentially good and it must be given fullest opportunities for free development in a free
atmosphere. Gandhi's philosophy of education is also naturalistic in setting as he believes in
the essential goodness of child's nature. According to him, children should be educated in
an atmosphere of freedom - freedom from superimposed restriction and interferences. His
main emphasis is on activity or learning by doing and shows aversion to artificiality and
pedantry. Being a naturalist, he attempts to liberate education from the four walls of
classroom and wishes it to be given in a wider sphere of the natural surroundings of the
child. The school to the naturalist is in no way different from the home; Frobel called the
school as kindergarten or garden for children whereas Montessori calls it Case-de-Bambini
or home for the children. According to Prestalozzi, there should be no difference between
the school and home.
Tagore
also believes that education given in natural surroundings develops intimacy
with the world. He puts more faith on the individual rather than institutions. Nature, to him,
is the focus where the interest and aspirations of human beings meet. It is therefore
essential not only to know nature, but to live in nature. "School", according to him, is like a
large home in which the children and teachers with their family live together, sharing a
common life of high aspirations, planned living and noble effort in contact with nature on
the one hand, and with the spirit of joy on the other. Naturalism also believes in the
principle of individual differences which means that every child has a unique capacity to
acquire knowledge and also the pace of learning is unique. So the school should have
respect for personal diversity and it should cater to the varied and different interests of the
child. Naturalists advocate such methods of teaching which offer the child an opportunity
for self education, self-expression, creative activity and integrated growth in an atmosphere
of unrestrained freedom.
with the world. He puts more faith on the individual rather than institutions. Nature, to him,
is the focus where the interest and aspirations of human beings meet. It is therefore
essential not only to know nature, but to live in nature. "School", according to him, is like a
large home in which the children and teachers with their family live together, sharing a
common life of high aspirations, planned living and noble effort in contact with nature on
the one hand, and with the spirit of joy on the other. Naturalism also believes in the
principle of individual differences which means that every child has a unique capacity to
acquire knowledge and also the pace of learning is unique. So the school should have
respect for personal diversity and it should cater to the varied and different interests of the
child. Naturalists advocate such methods of teaching which offer the child an opportunity
for self education, self-expression, creative activity and integrated growth in an atmosphere
of unrestrained freedom.
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NATURALISM AND CURRICULUM
Naturalists emphasize the
study of sciences dealing with nature-Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Zoology, Botany etc. They also give
importance to the study of language and Mathematics.
Naturalism
gives a very insignificant place to spiritualism in the curriculum. However, naturalists like Rabindra
Nath Tagore do emphasize spiritual values together with the study of literature and sciences so as to facilitate
harmonious development of the child. At the same time, teaching of religion according to Tagore can never be imparted
in the form of lessons, but in actual
practice of having. By religion he does not mean, the religion of man or any
narrow sectarianism. According to him, truth is the basis of all religions.
Spencer,
an extreme naturalist thinks that human nature is strictly individualistic and self-preservation
is the first law of life. He wants that all activities should be classified in order of their importance and
priority should be given to the activities which minister selfpreservation.
Thus in
the curriculum he assigns a special place to "Laws of life and principles
of
physiology". He gives a very high place to science, which he considers best both for
intellectual and moral discipline. According to him all studies should be correlated with
science. But T.H. Huxley does not agree with Spencer for giving undue importance to
science. He wants aesthetic culture to be imparted to children as a subject of priority.
physiology". He gives a very high place to science, which he considers best both for
intellectual and moral discipline. According to him all studies should be correlated with
science. But T.H. Huxley does not agree with Spencer for giving undue importance to
science. He wants aesthetic culture to be imparted to children as a subject of priority.
Rousseau
advocates negative education - which is typical of naturalistic philosophy -
the 40 subordination of the child to natural order and his freedom from the social order. He defines negative education as one that tends to perfect the organs that are the instruments of knowledge before giving them this knowledge directly. The child should be left free to develop his body and senses. He attaches great importance to sense training as he believes Senses are the gate ways of knowledge. For naturalists, genuine education is based on the Laws of readiness and needs of the human being. According to them child's nature, interests, and needs provide the basis of curriculum.
the 40 subordination of the child to natural order and his freedom from the social order. He defines negative education as one that tends to perfect the organs that are the instruments of knowledge before giving them this knowledge directly. The child should be left free to develop his body and senses. He attaches great importance to sense training as he believes Senses are the gate ways of knowledge. For naturalists, genuine education is based on the Laws of readiness and needs of the human being. According to them child's nature, interests, and needs provide the basis of curriculum.
ROLE OF THE TEACHER
According
to naturalists the teacher is the observer and facilitator of the child's
development rather than a giver of information, ideas, ideals and will power or a moulder of
character. In the words of Ross "teacher in a naturalistic set up is only a setter of the stage,
a supplier of materials and opportunities, a provider of an ideal environment, a creator of
conditions under which natural development takes place. Teacher is only a non-interfering
observer".
development rather than a giver of information, ideas, ideals and will power or a moulder of
character. In the words of Ross "teacher in a naturalistic set up is only a setter of the stage,
a supplier of materials and opportunities, a provider of an ideal environment, a creator of
conditions under which natural development takes place. Teacher is only a non-interfering
observer".
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For
Rousseau, the teacher, fist of all, is a person who is completely in tune with
nature. He has a profound faith in the original goodness of human nature. He believes that
human beings have their own time-table for learning. So Rousseau in his didactic novel
"Emile" organized education according to Emile's (a boy) stages of development. For each
stage of development, the child, shows certain signs that he is ready to learn what are
appropriate to that stage. Appreciating the educative role of the natural environment as an
educative force the teacher does not interfere with nature, but rather cooperates with the
ebb and flow of natural Forces. Significantly, the teacher who is aware of human nature and
its stages of growth and development, does not force Emile to learn but rather encourages
learning, by stimulating him to explore and to grow by his interactions with the
environment.
nature. He has a profound faith in the original goodness of human nature. He believes that
human beings have their own time-table for learning. So Rousseau in his didactic novel
"Emile" organized education according to Emile's (a boy) stages of development. For each
stage of development, the child, shows certain signs that he is ready to learn what are
appropriate to that stage. Appreciating the educative role of the natural environment as an
educative force the teacher does not interfere with nature, but rather cooperates with the
ebb and flow of natural Forces. Significantly, the teacher who is aware of human nature and
its stages of growth and development, does not force Emile to learn but rather encourages
learning, by stimulating him to explore and to grow by his interactions with the
environment.
Like Rousseau, Tagore is also
an individualist and a naturalist. He says that everyone
is unique and every individual is different from another. He believes that the natural
teachers i.e. the trees, the dawn, evening, the moonlight etc. -nourish the child's nature
spontaneously. Nature inspires the human being differently at different stages of human
development. He gives an important place to the teacher because according to him a real
teacher humanizes the learning process and activates the mind instead of stuffing it. It is the
teacher who kindles independent thinking, imagination and judgment. Rousseau opines that
teacher should not be in a hurry to make the child learn. Instead he should be patient,
permissive and non-intrusive. Demonstrating great patience, the teacher cannot allow
himself to tell the student what the truth is but rather must stand back and encourage the
learner's own self discovery. According to him the teacher is an invisible guide to learning.
While ever-present, he is never a taskmaster. Naturalists are of the view that teacher should
not be one who stresses books, recitations and massing information in literary form, "rather
he should give emphasis on activity, exploration, and learning by doing".
is unique and every individual is different from another. He believes that the natural
teachers i.e. the trees, the dawn, evening, the moonlight etc. -nourish the child's nature
spontaneously. Nature inspires the human being differently at different stages of human
development. He gives an important place to the teacher because according to him a real
teacher humanizes the learning process and activates the mind instead of stuffing it. It is the
teacher who kindles independent thinking, imagination and judgment. Rousseau opines that
teacher should not be in a hurry to make the child learn. Instead he should be patient,
permissive and non-intrusive. Demonstrating great patience, the teacher cannot allow
himself to tell the student what the truth is but rather must stand back and encourage the
learner's own self discovery. According to him the teacher is an invisible guide to learning.
While ever-present, he is never a taskmaster. Naturalists are of the view that teacher should
not be one who stresses books, recitations and massing information in literary form, "rather
he should give emphasis on activity, exploration, and learning by doing".
PRAGMATISM
Pragmatism
is popularly regarded as an indigenous American philosophy. But its
roots can be traced to ancient Greek philosophy. The term 'Pragmatism' is derived from the
Greek work 'Pragma' which means work Heraclitus and Sophist of ancient Greece are
considered to be pragmatic in their approach to life. There were other contemporaries such
as Protagoras and Gorgias. The background of pragmatism is associated with the works of
Francis Bacon, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and Charles Darwin. But the philosophical
elements that give pragmatism a consistency and system as a philosophy in its own right are
primarily the contributions of Charles Sanders Pierce, William James and John Dewey
though they differ considerably in their methods and conclusions. Pierce's view of
pragmatism is oriented towards physics and mathematics and Dewey's towards social
roots can be traced to ancient Greek philosophy. The term 'Pragmatism' is derived from the
Greek work 'Pragma' which means work Heraclitus and Sophist of ancient Greece are
considered to be pragmatic in their approach to life. There were other contemporaries such
as Protagoras and Gorgias. The background of pragmatism is associated with the works of
Francis Bacon, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and Charles Darwin. But the philosophical
elements that give pragmatism a consistency and system as a philosophy in its own right are
primarily the contributions of Charles Sanders Pierce, William James and John Dewey
though they differ considerably in their methods and conclusions. Pierce's view of
pragmatism is oriented towards physics and mathematics and Dewey's towards social
26 | P a g e
science and
biology. James's philosophy,
and the other
hand, are personal
and psychological, and are motivated by religious
considerations.
Pragmatists reject
metaphysics as a legitimate area of philosophical inquiry. Reality, they opine, is determined by an individual's sense
experience. Man can know nothing beyond
his experience. So questions relating to the ultimate nature of man and the universe
simply cannot be
answered because these
problems transcend one's
experience. For example, there is no way for any living being to
determine whether there is life after death, because one cannot
experience life after death while living. Any conclusion we make about life after death in merely conjecture or guess.
They believe that reality is in constant flux. There is nothing in the world which is static, permanent or eternal.
According to
pragmatism, knowledge based
on experience is
me, genuine and
worthy of acquisition. Since the phenomena are constantly changing, so knowledge and
truth must change accordingly. The knowledge which is helpful in solving present-day
problems is most preferred. They emphasize functional knowledge and understanding.
worthy of acquisition. Since the phenomena are constantly changing, so knowledge and
truth must change accordingly. The knowledge which is helpful in solving present-day
problems is most preferred. They emphasize functional knowledge and understanding.
Pragmatism does not believe
in standard, permanent and eternal values. According
to this philosophy, values derive from the human condition. Because man is a part of the
society, so the consequences of his actions are either good or bad according to their results.
If the consequences are worthwhile, then the value of the action is proven to be good. Thus
Values in ethics and aesthetics depend upon the relative circumstances of the situation as it
arises. Ultimate values cannot exist. Pragmatism, being a practical and utilitarian school of
philosophy, has influenced education to the maximum extent. It considers activity as the
basis of all teaching and prefers self-activity in the context of co-operative activity. It creates
optimistic men, who are the architects of their own fate by the process of their efforts. They
want that education should be according to one's aptitudes and abilities. Individual must be
respected and education should be planned to cater to his inclinations and capacities. But
individual development must take place in social context. The aim of education, according
to pragmatism, is to teach one how to think so that one can adjust to an ever changing
society.
to this philosophy, values derive from the human condition. Because man is a part of the
society, so the consequences of his actions are either good or bad according to their results.
If the consequences are worthwhile, then the value of the action is proven to be good. Thus
Values in ethics and aesthetics depend upon the relative circumstances of the situation as it
arises. Ultimate values cannot exist. Pragmatism, being a practical and utilitarian school of
philosophy, has influenced education to the maximum extent. It considers activity as the
basis of all teaching and prefers self-activity in the context of co-operative activity. It creates
optimistic men, who are the architects of their own fate by the process of their efforts. They
want that education should be according to one's aptitudes and abilities. Individual must be
respected and education should be planned to cater to his inclinations and capacities. But
individual development must take place in social context. The aim of education, according
to pragmatism, is to teach one how to think so that one can adjust to an ever changing
society.
In order
to produce creative, resourceful and adaptable children we should have
conditions in the school which are conducive to the creation of these qualities of mind. The
children should not be asked to work according to predetermined goals. They should
determine their goals according to their needs and interests and in conformity with the
demands of the activities that they have undertaken. For them the teaching-learning
process is a social process where the sharing of experiences between the teacher and
taught takes place.
conditions in the school which are conducive to the creation of these qualities of mind. The
children should not be asked to work according to predetermined goals. They should
determine their goals according to their needs and interests and in conformity with the
demands of the activities that they have undertaken. For them the teaching-learning
process is a social process where the sharing of experiences between the teacher and
taught takes place.
PRAGMATISM AND CURRICULUM
According
to pragmatists the main focus of education is not social heritage of the
past, but the good life in the present and in the future. The standard of social good is
past, but the good life in the present and in the future. The standard of social good is
27 | P a g e
constantly changing, so it should be tested and verified
through changing experience. Life does not
stand still and there is a constant need for improvement. John Dewey, however,
is of the view that acquaintance with
the past experience is very important for effective handling of the present as well as the future.
Pragmatists
are of the opinion that the curriculum at the school should reflect the
society. They have rejected the traditional approach to subject matter curriculum which is
associated with formal schooling, where knowledge is separated from child's own interests,
needs and experiences and is fragmented or compartmentalized. They emphasize the needs
and interests of the children. This does not mean letting children do anything they want.
Interests and needs do not necessarily mean the dictates of whim. Dewey opines that all
learning should be particular and contextual to a given time, place and circumstances. For
example, history is traditionally taught to the student without considering its relevance to
the everyday experience. So what is the use of studying history? Whatever may be the
subject matter it should liberate and enrich personal life by furnishing context, background
and outlook?
society. They have rejected the traditional approach to subject matter curriculum which is
associated with formal schooling, where knowledge is separated from child's own interests,
needs and experiences and is fragmented or compartmentalized. They emphasize the needs
and interests of the children. This does not mean letting children do anything they want.
Interests and needs do not necessarily mean the dictates of whim. Dewey opines that all
learning should be particular and contextual to a given time, place and circumstances. For
example, history is traditionally taught to the student without considering its relevance to
the everyday experience. So what is the use of studying history? Whatever may be the
subject matter it should liberate and enrich personal life by furnishing context, background
and outlook?
Dewey in
his book "Democracy and
Education" recommended three
levels of curricular organization:
(1) making and doing; (2) history and geography; and (3) organized
sciences.
At the
first curricular level, making and doing, should engage students in activities and
projects based on their experiences. ‘This idea is similar to that of Mahatma
Gandhi who is considered as an idealist, a naturalist as well as a pragmatist. He believes in the principle
of learning by doing. There is lot of similarity between the craft-centered
activities advocated by him add the project method of Dewey.
Though
Rabindra Nath Tagore is a naturalist, his views regarding curriculum are pragmatic
in nature. To him curriculum is not a number of subjects to be learnt but
relevant activities to be undertaken. In the second level
curriculum, History and Geography, which Dewey regards as two
great educational resources,
help in enlarging
the scope and significance
of the child's temporal and spatial experience from the immediate home and school environments to that of the larger
community and the world.
Dewey's
third stage of curriculum is that of the organized subjects, the various sciences,
consisting of bodies of tested knowledge. Pragmatists believe in a broad and diversified curriculum. They
endorse a more
general education as opposed
to narrow specialization.
Pragmatic curriculum is
composed of both process and content. When we consider what a child learns as
fixed and readymade, attention is directed too much upon outcome and too little upon process. Pragmatists focus some
attention on process, because ends should
not be divorced from means. So they assert that the means used to accomplish something dictate what the actual ends and
outcomes really are.
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ROLE OF THE TEACHER
Pragmatism
neither treats the teacher merely a spectator as naturalist does nor
regards him as indispensable as idealism does. According to pragmatism, the teacher is not
a dictator or task master but a leader of group activities. The chief function of a pragmatic
teacher is to suggest problems to his pupils and to stimulate them to find solutions.
Teachers ought not to try and pour information and knowledge into the pupil, because what
pupil learns depends upon his own personal needs, interests, and problems. Dewey views
the teacher as a resource person who guides rather than directs learning. The teacher's role
is primarily that of guiding learners who need advice or assistance. Direction comes from
the requirements of solving the particular problem. Educational aims belong to the learner
rather than the teacher.
regards him as indispensable as idealism does. According to pragmatism, the teacher is not
a dictator or task master but a leader of group activities. The chief function of a pragmatic
teacher is to suggest problems to his pupils and to stimulate them to find solutions.
Teachers ought not to try and pour information and knowledge into the pupil, because what
pupil learns depends upon his own personal needs, interests, and problems. Dewey views
the teacher as a resource person who guides rather than directs learning. The teacher's role
is primarily that of guiding learners who need advice or assistance. Direction comes from
the requirements of solving the particular problem. Educational aims belong to the learner
rather than the teacher.
Since
pragmatists are concerned with teaching children how to solve problems, they should
select real life situations which encourage the problem-solving ability among
the children.
For a problem to be solved correctly, the learner with
the help of teacher's guidance
needs to establish a correct procedural sequence to solve a particular problem.
A pragmatist teacher needs to be patient, friendly, enthusiastic and cooperative.
Although coercion might force the students to achieve immediate results, it is likely to limit
flexibility needed for the future problem-solving. The teacher's control of the learning
situation is ideally indirect rather than direct. Direct control, coercion or external discipline
generally fails to enlarge the learners’ internal disposition and does not in any way
contribute to the learner to become a self corrected person. As a resource person, the
pragmatic teacher needs to be non-interfering or what Dewey refers to as 'permissive' and
allow students to make errors and to experience the consequences of their actions. In this
way, he or she helps the students to become self-directed persons.
needs to establish a correct procedural sequence to solve a particular problem.
A pragmatist teacher needs to be patient, friendly, enthusiastic and cooperative.
Although coercion might force the students to achieve immediate results, it is likely to limit
flexibility needed for the future problem-solving. The teacher's control of the learning
situation is ideally indirect rather than direct. Direct control, coercion or external discipline
generally fails to enlarge the learners’ internal disposition and does not in any way
contribute to the learner to become a self corrected person. As a resource person, the
pragmatic teacher needs to be non-interfering or what Dewey refers to as 'permissive' and
allow students to make errors and to experience the consequences of their actions. In this
way, he or she helps the students to become self-directed persons.
For Dewey, permissiveness
does not mean that children's whims should dictate the curriculum. But
rather, the teacher
as a mature
person should exercise
professional judgment and expertise so
that the consequences of action do not become dangerous to the students themselves or to their classmates.
The pragmatic teacher should
constantly be aware of the motivation factor. Dewey opined that children are naturally motivated and the teacher should
capture and use the motivation that
is already there. He also pointed out that the teacher should pay respect to the principle of individual differences and treats
them accordingly. A pragmatic teacher wants
his pupils’ Philosophical .Education to think and act for themselves, to do
rather than to know and to originate rather than repeat. The pragmatic teacher
is a pragmatist first and a teacher
afterwards.
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PRAGMATISM AND DISCIPLINE
Pragmatism
does not believe in the traditional maxim "work while you work and play
while you play". Rather it advocates a discipline that can be maintained through play as
work. According to the pragmatists, it is the mental attitude which converts a work into play
and play into work. For example, a foot ball game becomes a work if it is played due to some
external pressure and difficult algebraic sum becomes play if it is solved out of zeal.
Pragmatism does not believe in external discipline enforced by the superior authority of the
teacher. It supplements discipline with greater freedom of activity. They feel that discipline
which is based on the principles of child's activities and need is beneficial. They want that
the interest of the child should be aroused, sustained and satisfied. The pragmatists believe
that the learner's freedom is not anarchy or allowing the child to do anything without
considering the consequences. Rather they believe in the purposeful co-operative activities
carried on in a free and happy environment Control comes from the cooperative context of
shared activity, which involves working with the fellow mates. In pragmatism there is no
place for rewards and punishments as every activity is to be pursued in a social setting
where teacher should come down to the level of children, mix with them, and share their
interests, and participate in their activities.
while you play". Rather it advocates a discipline that can be maintained through play as
work. According to the pragmatists, it is the mental attitude which converts a work into play
and play into work. For example, a foot ball game becomes a work if it is played due to some
external pressure and difficult algebraic sum becomes play if it is solved out of zeal.
Pragmatism does not believe in external discipline enforced by the superior authority of the
teacher. It supplements discipline with greater freedom of activity. They feel that discipline
which is based on the principles of child's activities and need is beneficial. They want that
the interest of the child should be aroused, sustained and satisfied. The pragmatists believe
that the learner's freedom is not anarchy or allowing the child to do anything without
considering the consequences. Rather they believe in the purposeful co-operative activities
carried on in a free and happy environment Control comes from the cooperative context of
shared activity, which involves working with the fellow mates. In pragmatism there is no
place for rewards and punishments as every activity is to be pursued in a social setting
where teacher should come down to the level of children, mix with them, and share their
interests, and participate in their activities.
30 | P a g e
REALISM IN EDUCATON
BACKGROUND AND MEANING OF REALISM:
Just as
Naturalism comes on the Educational scene as a protest against systems of
education that have become artificial. Realism appears to be a reaction against curricula
consisting of studies that have become bookish, sophisticated and an abstruse. As we have a
slogan in Naturalism- ‘Back to Nature ‘- in Realism we have a slogan-‘Things rather than
words '.
education that have become artificial. Realism appears to be a reaction against curricula
consisting of studies that have become bookish, sophisticated and an abstruse. As we have a
slogan in Naturalism- ‘Back to Nature ‘- in Realism we have a slogan-‘Things rather than
words '.
Idealism
deals with ‘mind and self,' Naturalism
emphasizes ‘Matter and Physical world',
and pragmatism ‘Refuses to speculate and
transcend beyond experience ‘. And
according to Realism the external world of objects is not imaginary. It really
exists, "Our experience is not independent but determines reaction to
the external objects. Experiences are influenced by the external world which has real
existence." It is a new outlook and this new outlook is termed as Realism.
The
realistic movement in education started from the 16th century. The 16th and
17th centuries witnessed great inventions and epochal discoveries which greatly increased
the store of human knowledge. They extended the horizon of human knowledge. The rise of
scientific inquiry opened new vistas before human mind. (Bacon’s formulation and
17th centuries witnessed great inventions and epochal discoveries which greatly increased
the store of human knowledge. They extended the horizon of human knowledge. The rise of
scientific inquiry opened new vistas before human mind. (Bacon’s formulation and
statement of the new scientific
method.) All these lead to a new spirit of inquiry into the
realities of nature. Man started to believe more in himself. He thought that he would
conquer the entire world with his supreme gift of rationality. The interest in language and
literature began to wane and people became more and more interested in man and his
environment.
realities of nature. Man started to believe more in himself. He thought that he would
conquer the entire world with his supreme gift of rationality. The interest in language and
literature began to wane and people became more and more interested in man and his
environment.
Consequently, there arose a
demand of/for a new type of education in which truth rather than beauty,
realities of life of the day rather than the beauties of the old days were aims
of education as there was a great premium on Man and human endeavour combined with science and common sense. This new conception
was marked by an awakened interest in
the natural phenomena and social institutions. This new outlook came to be
termed as ‘Realism in Education '.
“The realist enters his emphatic protest against a cleavage between the work of
the school and the life of the world outside it.” (Rose, James S.: Ground work
of Educational Theory, p. 214 ).
"Education
is that which makes a man happy by getting acquaintance with real circumstances
of life; create capacity for struggling with adverse situation in life.
Realistic education
is connected with the needs of life. “(Dr. Chaube, S.P. and Akilesh:
philosophical and Sociological; Foundation
of Education, P. 171).
FUNDAMENTAL POSTULATES AND MAIN TENETS:
1)
External world is a solid Reality, whether known or unknown to man. Reality is
already in existence and in the invention of man. It exists independently of being known to
already in existence and in the invention of man. It exists independently of being known to
32 | P a g e
perceive by, or related to mind. Man can only comprehend
it, through senses. One should dip below
the surface to know the reality.
2)
Realism places great premium on Man and human endeavor, which it says, should
be combined with science and common-sense. It, however, asserts that ‘Man is finite' and
learning is necessary for a finite man, Education is the process by which he lifts himself up to
the external. “The Realists wish man to be a man of affairs, practical and always seeker of
deeper and deeper truth and reality," (Taneja, V.R.: Socio-philosophical Approach to
be combined with science and common-sense. It, however, asserts that ‘Man is finite' and
learning is necessary for a finite man, Education is the process by which he lifts himself up to
the external. “The Realists wish man to be a man of affairs, practical and always seeker of
deeper and deeper truth and reality," (Taneja, V.R.: Socio-philosophical Approach to
Education,
p. 241).
3) The realist
say that ‘Mind' like any
other material thing
has mechanical
functioning. They discount its
creating ability. "Just as any object of universe can be ‘true' or ‘false'
similarly mind is also ‘true' or ‘false'. The development of mind is the part
of the process of development of the world." (Dr. Chaube, S.P. and Akilesh: Philosophical
and Sociological foundation of Education, p.171)
‘Mind is
what it studies'. (Herbert). If this
concept of the realists is accepted in education then we are forced to believe that children's
mind are ‘mere cameras to register the
reality of the universe. 'Philosophers say that mind has lot of scope for enrichment
elevation and creativity.
4) Realism tries to build up
a body of systematized knowledge, which is certain and
objective and agrees with the standpoint of physical sciences. It says that every reality can
be proved by observation, experience, experiment and scientific reasoning, For them,
experience is the touchstone of what is real. Whenever the simple and direct experience
can't determine the objective truth, the common sense puts its truth in scientific research.
In the present world of falling idols and falling ideals, the realists emphasize the role of
intelligence as great significant, as it formulates the concepts and develops general and
abstract ideas.
objective and agrees with the standpoint of physical sciences. It says that every reality can
be proved by observation, experience, experiment and scientific reasoning, For them,
experience is the touchstone of what is real. Whenever the simple and direct experience
can't determine the objective truth, the common sense puts its truth in scientific research.
In the present world of falling idols and falling ideals, the realists emphasize the role of
intelligence as great significant, as it formulates the concepts and develops general and
abstract ideas.
5) The
realists of all brands aver that values are permanent and objective and say that
although institutions and practices vary a great deal, the fundamental values
of society should not change. The children should be taught those
values, which have proved enduring throughout history. They should be
taught the nature of ‘right' and ‘wrong' and what is objectively
good and beautiful.
In brief, Realism believes in the
usefulness of the world and the material existence in its field
of action. It believes that whatever is real is independent. Whatever is, is and exists. Its
presence of existence does not depend upon the knower. (Compare with idealist's
of action. It believes that whatever is real is independent. Whatever is, is and exists. Its
presence of existence does not depend upon the knower. (Compare with idealist's
standpoint.) The individual doesn't
make reality, he only discovers it. Main tenets:
i) Realism believes in the world which
we see of perceive to be real. According to them it is wrong to say
ii)
Realists believe in the present life.
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iii) They believe that the truth of
life and aim of life are in the development from the present
unsystematic life.
iv)
Knowledge is real and can be assimilated by the human beings.
v) The
realists distinguish between ‘appearance' and ‘reality'.
vi) Realism believes
that there is
an objective reality
apart from that
which is presented to the consciousness.
The
developing realism has adopted four points in education:
i)
Humanistic Realism,
ii)
Social Realism,
iii)
Sense Realism, and
iv) Neo-Realism.
iv) Neo-Realism.
i) Humanistic Realism in education
Humanistic
realism is the reaction against the emphasize on form and style of the old classical literature. It has
great regard for the ancient literature but it emphasizes the study of content and ideas in the ancient classical
literature to understand one's present social life and environment. The aim is not to study the form
and style of old literature to have mastery
over it. The study of old literature is a means to understand the practical
life. History, Geography, Kautilyas
Arthashastra are the
subjects and books should be studied for this purpose. Erasmus (1446-1537),
Rabelais (1483-1553), John Milton (1608-1674) were the supporters
of this faculty.
ii) Social Realism in education
Social
Realism in education is the reaction against a type of education that produces scholars
and professional men to the neglect of the man of affairs i.e. practice.
Education should not produce men who are unfit in social life. The
purpose of education, according to social realists, is to prepare the
practical man of the world. Michael de Montague (1533-
1592) was the main supporter of this faculty.
1592) was the main supporter of this faculty.
iii) The sense Realism in education
The
sense realism in education emphasizes the training of the senses. Senses are
the gateways
of knowledge and learning takes place the operation of the senses. According to
sense-realists nature is the treasure house
of all knowledge and this knowledge can be obtained through the training of the senses.
The
sense-realists emphasized the three things:
a) Application of inductive method
formulated by Bacon in order to organize and simplify the
instructional process.
b) To
replace instruction in Latin by the instruction in Vernacular, and
c) To substitute new scientific and
social studies in place of the studies in language and literature.
Richard Mulcaster (1531-1611), Francis Bacon (1561-1626), Ratke (1571 to 1635) and
Comenius (1592-1670) were the supporters of this faculty.
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iv). Neo-Realism in education
Neo-Realism is really a
philosophical thought. It appears the methods and results of modern development in physics. They do not consider
the scientific principles everlasting while
they express the changeability in them. They support the education of art with
the science and analytical system of
education with the humananistic feelings. They consider living and nonliving all objective to be organs and
the development of organs is the main objective and all round
development of the objects is the main characteristic of education. Bertrand Russell and whitehead were the
supporters of this faculty.
REALISM AND AIMS OF EDUCATION:
"Realists
do not believe in general and common aims of education. According to
them aims are specific to each individual and his perspectives." (Seetharamu, A.S.:
them aims are specific to each individual and his perspectives." (Seetharamu, A.S.:
philosophies of Education, p.74). And
each one has different perspectives. The aim of
education should be to teach truth rather than beauty, to understand the present practical
life.
education should be to teach truth rather than beauty, to understand the present practical
life.
The
purpose of education, according to social realists, is to prepare the practical
man of the world.
The science realists
expressed that the education should be conducted on universal
basis. Greater stress should be laid upon the observation of nature and the education of
science.
basis. Greater stress should be laid upon the observation of nature and the education of
science.
Neo-realists aim
at developing all
round development of
the objects with
the development of their organs.
REALISM AND CURRICULA:
According to humanistic realism classical literature
should be studied but not for
studying its form and style but for its content and ideas it contained. Milton, one of the
supporters of humanistic realism, has drafted a curriculum of education as follows:
1st year: Latin, grammar, arithmetic and geometry. Reading of simple Latin and Greek.
2nd year: Greek, agriculture, geography Natural philosophy, mathematics, engineering and
architecture.
studying its form and style but for its content and ideas it contained. Milton, one of the
supporters of humanistic realism, has drafted a curriculum of education as follows:
1st year: Latin, grammar, arithmetic and geometry. Reading of simple Latin and Greek.
2nd year: Greek, agriculture, geography Natural philosophy, mathematics, engineering and
architecture.
In the
next 5th year: chief writings of the ancients in prose and poetry on these
subjects.
Remaining
years - Ethical
instruction, Bible, Hebrew,
Greek, Roman and
Saxon Law, economics,
politics, history, logic, rhetoric, poetry-all by reading select writhers.
Social realism was generally recommended for the people of the upper social
class/strata. It combined literary elements with ideals of chivalric education. Naturally it included the study of literature, heraldry (the science dealing with coats of arms and the persons who have right to wear them), genealogy (science of the development of plants and animals from earlier forms), riding, fencing, gymnastics, study of modern languages and the customs and institutions of neighboring countries.
Social realism was generally recommended for the people of the upper social
class/strata. It combined literary elements with ideals of chivalric education. Naturally it included the study of literature, heraldry (the science dealing with coats of arms and the persons who have right to wear them), genealogy (science of the development of plants and animals from earlier forms), riding, fencing, gymnastics, study of modern languages and the customs and institutions of neighboring countries.
35 | P a g e
Sense-realism attached
more importance to the study
of natural sciences
and contemporary social life. Study of
languages is not as significant as the study of natural sciences and contemporary life.
Neo-realism gives stress on
the subject physics and on humanistic feelings, physics
and psychology, sociology, economics, Ethics, Politics, history, Geography, agriculture varied
arts, languages and so on, are the main subjects to be studied according to the Neo-realists.
and psychology, sociology, economics, Ethics, Politics, history, Geography, agriculture varied
arts, languages and so on, are the main subjects to be studied according to the Neo-realists.
REALISM AND METHODS OF TEACHING:
Education
should proceed from simple to complex and from concrete to abstract.
Ø Things before rules and words.
Ø Things before rules and words.
Ø Students to be taught to analyze rather than
to construct.
Ø Vernacular to be the medium of instruction.
Ø The order of nature to be sought and followed.
(The child can rule over the nature if the natural laws are followed.)
Ø Repetition is necessary for retention.
Ø Vernacular to be the medium of instruction.
Ø The order of nature to be sought and followed.
(The child can rule over the nature if the natural laws are followed.)
Ø Repetition is necessary for retention.
ØIndividual's experience and spirit of inquiry is more
important than authority.
Ø No unintelligent cramming. More emphasis on questioning and understanding.
Ø Methods of scientific thinking formulated by Sir Thomas Bacon.
REALISM AND THE TEACHER :
Ø No unintelligent cramming. More emphasis on questioning and understanding.
Ø Methods of scientific thinking formulated by Sir Thomas Bacon.
REALISM AND THE TEACHER :
1) A
teacher should be such that he himself is educated and well versed with the customs
of belief and rights and duties of people, and the trends of all ages and
places.
2) He
must have full mastery of the knowledge of present life.
3) He must guide the student towards
the hard realities of life. He is neither pessimist, nor optimist.
4) He
must be able to expose children to the problems of life and the world around.
(To master one's own environing life natural, social through knowledge of the
broader life of the ancients.)
A
teacher should always keep in mind-
ü Re-capitulation is necessary to make the
knowledge permanent. ü One subject should
be taught at one time.
ü No pressure or coercion be brought upon the
child.
ü The practice of cramming should be given up.
ü The uniformity should be the basic principle
in all things.
ü Things should be introduced first and then the
words.
ü The entire knowledge should be gained after
experience.
ü The knowledge should be imparted on the basis
of organs.
ü Straight forward method should be adopted for
teaching.
ü There should be a co-relation between utility
in daily life and education. ü The child should
be told the utility of whatever is taught.
36 | P a g e
ü The simple rules should be defined.
ü All the subjects should be taught in proper
order.
ü Various organs of
education should be taught in chronological order.
ü The topic should not be given up unless the boys understand it well.
ü To find out the interest of the child and to teach accordingly.
REALISM AND THE CHILD:
ü The topic should not be given up unless the boys understand it well.
ü To find out the interest of the child and to teach accordingly.
REALISM AND THE CHILD:
1)
"Realism in education recognizes the importance of the child. The child is
a real unit which has real existence. He has some feelings, some
desires and some powers. All these cannot be overlooked. These powers of the child
shall have to be given due regarding at the time of planning education.
2)
" Child can reach near reality through learning by reason."
3)
" Child has to be given as much freedom as possible."
4)
"The child is to be enabled to proceed on the basis of facts,"
5) The
child can learn only when he follows the laws of learning."
(When only one response is repeated
for one stimulus, it conditioned by that stimulus. Now wherever that situation
comes, response will be the same; this is the fact.)
6) "
The child is to be understood a creature of the real world there is no sense in
making him a God. He has to
be trained to become a man only." 1(Dr. Pandey Ram Shakal: An introduction to Major philosophies of
Education, pp.160. 161).
REALISM AND SCHOOL ORGANIZATION:
1) School organization would
be based on the real needs of society. It is not proper
that a college should be established due to political pressure at a place when it is not
needed.
that a college should be established due to political pressure at a place when it is not
needed.
2) The
opening of science classes in every school is must. Only academic and literary subjects
are not sufficient to fulfill the needs of the society.
3)
Realism doesn't oppose co-education. Sex-drive is a real feeling. It is a
natural happening so it cannot be rejected.
4)
School is the mirror of the society. It is a miniature form of society and it
presents
the
real picture of the society
REALISM AND DISCIPLINE:
Discipline is adjustment to
objectivity. It is necessary in order to enable the child to adjust himself to
his environment and concentrate on his work. Bringing out change in the real world is impossible. The student himself is
a part of this world. He has to admit this fact and adjust himself to the world.
A
disciplined student is one who does not withdraw from the cruelties, tyrannies,
hardships and shortcomings
pervading the world.
Realism has vehemently
opposed withdrawal from life. One has to adjust oneself to this
material world.
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Thus, the
realism has brought great effect in various fields of education. The aims,
the curriculum, the methods of teaching the outlook towards the child, the teachers, the
discipline and the system of education all were given new blood. Realism in education
dragged the education from the old traditions, idealism and the high and low tides to the
real surface.
the curriculum, the methods of teaching the outlook towards the child, the teachers, the
discipline and the system of education all were given new blood. Realism in education
dragged the education from the old traditions, idealism and the high and low tides to the
real surface.
DARK SIDE OF REALISM:
1) "
Realism recognizes the real existence of the material world. This recognition remains
un objected to unless he says that only material world really exists. The
question arises-
Is there no power behind this material world? Does it have its own existence?
What is the limit of the universe? The realist does give reply to these
questions but these replies are not found to be satisfactory. The real
existence of material world may be admitted but how can the existence come to an end in the world itself? "
2) "
The realist claims to be objective. Objectivity in knowledge is nothing but the
partnership
of personal knowledge. Knowledge is always subjective." 1
3) " The realist recognizes the origin of knowledge
from the datum achieved by senses and
asserts that only objects are main and it is through their contact that knowledge is acquired.
Then how does our illusion arise? How does knowledge become fallacious? Where does the
external object go in dream? The realist is unable to answer these questions satisfactorily. “
asserts that only objects are main and it is through their contact that knowledge is acquired.
Then how does our illusion arise? How does knowledge become fallacious? Where does the
external object go in dream? The realist is unable to answer these questions satisfactorily. “
4) "
The realist does not accept the existence of transcendental (not based on experience or reason) being. How could be know the
non-existence of that which does not exist?
Has non-existence got no existence? Void ness and non-existence also are the
parts of existence. Here the realist
is dumb completely. "
5) “Realism admits real feelings
and needs of life on the one hand, gives no place to imagination and sentiment, on the other. What a contradiction? Are
imaginations, emotions and sentiments not real needs of human life? Is
emotionless life not almost dead life? Can life
be lead on the basis of facts only? "
6) "
No inspiration to remove the defects of modern education can be achieved unless
the impressiveness of pure and high thought is admitted and attitude is not
confined to present facts only; because the realist is satisfied simply by the
fulfillment of the needs of daily life and be does not care to make life
sublime."
7) " Today the effect of
realism has given rise to the wave of science. It is right, but there should
be no indifference
towards art and
literature. The realist
supports this negligence. "
8. " Realism enthuses
disappointment in students and teachers. No progress can be
made by having faith in the facts of daily life and shattering faith in ideals. Life is but full of
miseries and struggles. Sorrow is more predominant than joy in the world. A person
becomes disappointed by this feeling. That is why realists often appear to be skeptics
made by having faith in the facts of daily life and shattering faith in ideals. Life is but full of
miseries and struggles. Sorrow is more predominant than joy in the world. A person
becomes disappointed by this feeling. That is why realists often appear to be skeptics
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(person who doubts the truth of a
particular claim, theory etc.).Pessimists and Objectionists,
“(Dr. Pande, Ram Shakal: An Introduction to Major philosophies of Education, pp. 170-171.)
“(Dr. Pande, Ram Shakal: An Introduction to Major philosophies of Education, pp. 170-171.)
CONCLUSION:
Some of
the points raised against realism may be true but some are raised under
ignorance of the study of realism in the true sense. Its contributions to modern education
should not be ignored. Today attention is being paid towards technical and vocational
education in all corners of the world. There are many Engineering Colleges in India, too.
Everywhere there is an arrangement of higher education of Medicine and Law. Increasing
interest towards empirical education is the application of the realistic attitude.
ignorance of the study of realism in the true sense. Its contributions to modern education
should not be ignored. Today attention is being paid towards technical and vocational
education in all corners of the world. There are many Engineering Colleges in India, too.
Everywhere there is an arrangement of higher education of Medicine and Law. Increasing
interest towards empirical education is the application of the realistic attitude.
There
are two main contributions of the education based upon the realism. Firstly, it
tried to
remove the gulf-between the life and education. Secondly, it propounded the principle of
experimentation and observation
in education. It
was realism that
first introduced
the thought that the organs are the door way to knowledge and the knowledge can
be gained through the inductive method. The wordy education and bookish
knowledge are not sufficient. Real education
is that which brings about union between nature and society based upon one's own experience.
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