The Progressive Era, from the late nineteenth century to the early twentieth century, was all about progress and fixing past problems caused by industrialization, hence its name, the
Progressive Era. Although people focused most on political reformation, other issues focused on, much like education, contributed just as much to the progress of the nation during this time period. One of these people who valued the effects education could have on the country, John
Dewey, epitomized progressivism as seen in his motivation, preparation, and accomplishments.
Motivation
John Dewey had constantly been engrossed in the field of education since his early life, which influenced his beliefs and motives tremendously. As someone who lived during the
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Using some of their beliefs to create his own, Dewey soon found that current philosophers had lost their touch with proper education and philosophy, so he sought to create his own methods and beliefs that could lead to reformation and progress (2006). As he began to develop his own theories, Dewey believed that children should be taught how to think, not what to think, and what better way to do this than to apply themselves to the real world? He preached realization and believed that children would be more successful and educated if they
JOHN DEWEY AND THE PROGRESSIVE ERA 3 were taught to learn how to acclimate and adapt to the ever-changing environment around them
(2004). These beliefs were a result of and were inspired by Dewey’s own experiences and responses to the rapidly changing external world (2003). By teaching and preaching that education should be based on experience, Dewey was able to change the face of progressive education. Preparation
Dewey’s early schooling and experiences greatly prepared him and his beliefs on education for eventually influencing the nation. Beginning his preparation early, Dewey graduated from the University of Vermont at the top of his class, while his initial spark