The reconstruction of educational theory: Confucianism, practicalism, and pragmatism (1945-1965)

The purpose of this dissertation is to describe the influence of American Pragmatism in Korea, and assess the significance of that influence on the Korean educational system in the post-World War II era. This study will involve developing a historical perspective on Korean pedogogical theories before the Liberation and a discussion of the introduction of Western education.;With a receptive environment, American Pragmatism became easily embedded in Korean educational thought, contributing to the advanced level of scientific and mathematical ability seen in modern-day Korea which made possible the economic "Miracle on the Han River". Behind Korea's modernization is the combined educational system of American Pragmatism and Korea's Confucian and practicalist heritage.;The main research effort was expended in reviewing both governmental education plans under the influence of American Pragmatism in the post-World War II Korean education era with Korean Practical educational theory.;The Korean populace has always displayed an instinctively deep respect for learning, potentially explaining the success of Korea's education. This dissertation will examine the entry and implementation of pragmatist educational thoughts that contributed to Korea's modernization. It will answer the following questions: (1) What were the educational philosophies, pedogogical theories, and educational methods in post-World War II Korean education from 1945 to 1965? (2) What factors contributed to American Pragmatism's influence on Korea's educational system, particularly on basic education, educational method, and curriculum? (3) What has been the educational significance of the merger of American Pragmatism with the more traditional Korean thought?;The dissertation will examine the educational milieu which prompted the advent of pragmatism and its congruence with practicalist thought in the Korean educational system, as opposed to existing confucianist thought. The proposed study will concentrate on the influence and blendings of American Pragmatism and Korean educational theory in Korea's post-World War II educational system. For a historical review and descriptive analysis, the study developed an analytical framework with specifications based on a review of related literature.;Referring to related literature, the major findings are discussed and conclusions are drawn as follows: (1) Practicalism in Korea was a pragmatic approach to overall fields in politics, economics, history, literature, and natural sciences. (2) Practicalism was influenced by Western culture, anticipating to modernize Korea by means of educational reforms and changes. (3) Both philosophers, Pragmatism and Practicalism, try to draw truth not from abstract conception, but from the results which coincide with the purpose of human behavior.;Finally, recommendations which should be taken in consideration for better future educational planning implementation are described as suggestions for further studies.