[Session 11] Two Major Trends of Pedagogy
(1) Disciplinistic Principle and Empirical Principle
- Is Dewey a disciplinist or an empiricist (from the beginning to Chapter 3)?

Explanation for Task 11

 Read Chapters 1-3 of the textbook, Experience and Education, consider Dewey's words and deepen your understanding of disciplinism and empiricism (Chapter 4 and beyond are to be covered in the next session). Since this period language is not easy to read, I advise you to take time to read it.

 As the first activity in Task 11-1, let's look at passages where disciplinism seems to be indicated and those which seem to refer to empiricism, so that Dewey's opinions can be outlined. The discussion board of Task 11-1 has three threads; a thread of disciplinism (traditional curriculum), that of empiricism (progressive curriculum), and that of others (which deserve attention but is difficult to categorize). Post your findings in a relevant thread.

 Move on to Task 11-2 and state your opinions based on these categorizations. The question is "Which approach do you support, disciplinism or empiricism?" Clarify your position based on your educational experiences as a learner or a teacher. Remember to make comments on other participants' comments after posting your opinion. Let's create a lively discussion.

Task 11-1: Examples of postings

Disciplinism (traditional curriculum)
"The traditional school relied up subjects or cultural heritage for its content (omitted)." (p.9, l.28-29)
   I assume "subjects" used here is the same as "subject-matters", as in history, mathematics, etc.

"The traditional curriculum undoubtedly entailed rigid implementation and a discipline that ignored the capacities and interests of child nature." (p.10, l.4-7)


Empiricism (progressive curriculum)
"(Omitted) the reaction to this [traditional] type of schooling often fosters the other extreme–inchoate curriculum, excessive individualism, and spontaneity which is a deceptive index of freedom." (p.10, l.7-10)
   I have long recognized that Dewey aimed at progressive education. Isn't it contradictory, or this is just editor's introduction?


Others (deserved of attention but difficult to categorize)
"Neither of these sets of values is sufficient unto itself. Both are essential." (p.10, l.1-2)
   This is a quotation from an Editorial Foreword. The editor states that Dr. Dewey insists that each (traditional or progressive curriculum) would miseducate by itself.

Note: Enclose quotations from the textbook in double quotation marks with punctuation left intact. When omitted, indicate it by "(omitted)." Specify the relevant page. "" indicates that quotations are followed by your explanation and additional statements.


Reference link: John Dewey, Experience and Education (English) (Chapters 1-3, 7 and 8 only) under Molloy College's Sophia Project (broken link)