Progressivism

Jordan Gender

Learning Targets:

1.) Readers will be able to identify the values of Progressivism.

2.) Readers will be able to describe Progressivism in the classroom.

What Does Progressivism Value?

Problem solving skills
Student individuality and personal agency
Communication
Critical Thinking
Passion for learning

(Baird, 2023; Mosier, 1952)

(SMQ, n.d.)

Progressivism in the Classroom: What Does it Look Like?

Let's begin examining what Progressivism looks like by watching this short video! While this video may be a bit older, many of the progressive ideas presented here can easily be applied to modern classrooms.

This video is a news broadcast from NBC4 in which teachers from Wickliffe Elementary, a progressive school, were interviewed to discuss what a progressive classroom looks like. In the video, teachers talk about children's passion for learning, project-based learning, creating multi-age classrooms by combining grade levels, supporting community, bringing in guest speakers, and using student experience for learning (NBC4 Columbus, 2012).

Conclusion

Progressivism values many important skills in students and allows for students to become active in their education. Understanding what Progressivism has to offer will help future teachers figure out their own educational philosophies and create an environment that is hands-on and discussion-based in order for their students to explore their individuality and enjoy their education.

Quiz

1.) Which of the options below would be found in a progressive classroom?

a) Front facing desks and lectures

b) Guest speakers and projects

c) Lots of tests/assessments

d) Silence or frequent quiet periods

2.) Albert does an egg drop test in class and notices that his egg breaks. After re-examining his design and making the proper adjustments, he does the egg drop again and this time he succeeds! Which value of Progressivism best aligns with what Albert is doing?

a) Communication

b) Passion for learning

c) Problem solving

d) Student individuality

Answers

1.) B

2.) C

References

Ako Aotearoa (2015). Project-based learning focused on numeracy and literacy skills with māori second-chance learners. Ako Aotearoa. https://ako.ac.nz/knowledge-centre/project-based-learning/.

Baird, L. L. (2023). What is progressive education? U.S. News. https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/what-is-progressive-education.

Maryland GovPics (2020). Read across america at leith walk elementary. Flickr. https://www/flickr.com/photos/mdgovpics/49628220186.

Mosier, R. D. (1952). Progressivism in education. Peabody Journal of Education, 29(5), 274-281. doi:10.1080/01619565209536351.

NBC4 Columbus (2012). Progressive education program. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XycNgAEXiGo&t=8s.

PickPik (n.d.). School classroom with tables and chairs. PickPik. https://pickpik.com/school-classroom-tables-chairs-various-college-77253.

Scott, K. H. (2021). What is project-based learning? U.S. News. https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/what-is-project-based-learning.

SMQ (n.d.). Museum of ingenuity J. Armand Bombardier. SMQ. https://www.smq.qc.ca/en/museums/guide/museum-of-ingenuity-j.-armand-bombardier.html.

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