Dewey And Practicality Of American Education

This study analyzes the main features of American education and explores its application of the educational theory of John Dewey, the famous American philosopher and educator.In late 19th century and early 20th century, the United States underwent a rapid economic growth, which called for a new form of education. During that time, different schools of American theories on education in the United States emerged, including Pragmatism of Education contributed by John Dewey (1859-1952), Essentialism of Education by William Chandler Bagley (1874-1946), and Perennialism of Education by Robert Maynard Hutchins (1899-1977). Among these groups, Dewey's educational theory is the most influential. Having carefully studied American philosophy of pragmatism and psychology of functionalism, Dewey gradually formed his educational theory focusing on the relationship between education and life, education and growth, and school and society. According to him, education is not the preparation for life and growth, education itself is life, is growth; and the school is not a place for students to learn lessons, but somehow a genuine form of active community life. He considers the basic needs of individuals in the social development and encourages flexibility, creativity and practicality in individual thinking. His educational theory enlightens people to look on education from a new perspective.This thesis presents and analyzes data regarding different aspects of American education, such as the curricula, the teaching method and the teaching process. It claims that American education features practicality and that its application of Dewey's educational theory is very specific and effective. For instance, it has applied Dewey's view of "Education is life" through interesting curricula and various kinds of social activities; it has applied Dewey's view of "Education is growth" through sufficient facilities, different opportunities and open environment in the schools; it has applied Dewey's view of "The school is society" through the project method in teaching and close connection with society.On the whole, American education features practicality by effectively applying Dewey's educational theory. It has promoted personal interests, potential and creativity in its teaching and research practice, and formed an open and democratic educational environment. It ishoped that the way American education applies Dewey's educational theory may provide some enlightenment and experience to Chinese education. It is also expected that American education can make further improvement through applying other educational theories to some extent.