Graph of Teaching Principles

Philosophical Orientations in Education Today
(Teaching Methods/Roles)

Essentialism Discussion and analysis, examination of choice making in own and other’s lives. Encourage students to philosophize about life and to fulfill personal freedom.

Marxism Scientific methodology, practical activity (problem solving). Lead and advocate change.

Behaviorism Programmed instruction that provides feedback on performance behavioral contracts, reinforcement.

Cognitivism Use of manipulatives and real-life learning opportunities relevant to students’ prior experiences. Stimulate cognitive development; mediate student learning and monitor thought processes.

Pragmatism Hands-on curricula, group work, experimentation. Teach inductive and deductive reasoning, the scientific method, and the powers of observation and practice.

Perennialism Teacher-centered direct instruction. Guide to the classics; teach basic skills.

Essentialism Subject-centered direct instruction. Deliver a standard curriculum.

Social Reconstruction Stimulate divergent thinking and group investigation. Ask questions; present social issues and problem solving challenges; serve as organizer and information resource.

This has been adapted from Foundations of Education, by Robert F. McNergney and Joanne M. Herbert. Simon & Schuster Publishing, 1995.

Essentialism	Discussion and analysis, examination of choice making in own and other’s lives. Encourage students to philosophize about life and to fulfill personal freedom.
Marxism	Scientific methodology, practical activity (problem solving). Lead and advocate change.
Behaviorism	Programmed instruction that provides feedback on performance behavioral contracts, reinforcement.
Cognitivism	Use of manipulatives and real-life learning opportunities relevant to students’ prior experiences. Stimulate cognitive development; mediate student learning and monitor thought processes.
Pragmatism	Hands-on curricula, group work, experimentation. Teach inductive and deductive reasoning, the scientific method, and the powers of observation and practice.
Perennialism	Teacher-centered direct instruction. Guide to the classics; teach basic skills.
Essentialism	Subject-centered direct instruction. Deliver a standard curriculum.
Social Reconstruction	Stimulate divergent thinking and group investigation. Ask questions; present social issues and problem solving challenges; serve as organizer and information resource.