progressive education

noun

1. any of various reformist educational philosophies and methodologies since the late 1800s, applied especially to elementary schools, that reject the rote recitation and strict discipline of traditional, single-classroom teaching, favoring instead more stimulation of the individual pupil as well as group discussion, more informality in the classroom, a broader curriculum, and use of laboratories, gymnasiums, kitchens, etc., in the school.

progressive education

1. A broad movement for educational reform in the twentieth century. Progressive education is principally associated with John Dewey , but it contains many different and often conflicting ideas. In general, progressive educators view existing schools as too rigid, formal, and detached from real life. They prefer informal classroom arrangements and informal relations between pupils and teachers. They also prefer that schools teach useful subjects (including occupations) and emphasize “learning by doing” rather than instruction purely from textbooks. Some place the developing personality of the child at the center of educational thinking and insist, “teach the child, not the subject.”

Example Sentences

It is the aim of progressive education to take part in correcting unfair privilege and unfair deprivation, not to perpetuate them.

From Project Gutenberg

The progressive education of a child should be, as far as possible, unconscious.

From Project Gutenberg

The further development of religion in a community so mixed must depend on the progressive education and elevation of the people.

From Project Gutenberg

"It takes time to undo the damage of progressive education," McCarthy said.

From Project Gutenberg

"It was progressive education that destroyed reading," McCarthy said heatedly.

From Project Gutenberg