John Dewey, has a huge influence in the way we teach at Innovative Early Learning, we embrace many of his beliefs and ideas. John Dewey is a prominent American philosopher and educational reformer who made significant contributions to the field of education, including early childhood education. His educational theory, often referred to as "progressive education," had a profound influence on early childhood education and emphasised the following key principles:
Child-Centered Learning: Dewey believed that education should be child-centered, meaning that it should start with the child's interests and experiences. In early childhood education, this principle is particularly relevant as it recognises the importance of tailoring instruction to the individual needs and interests of the child.
Learning by Doing: Dewey emphasised hands-on, experiential learning as a primary method of education. He believed that children learn best by actively engaging with their environment, manipulating objects, and solving real-life problems. In early childhood education, this approach is often manifested through play-based learning and exploration.
Social Interaction: Dewey stressed the importance of social interaction and collaboration in the learning process. Early childhood settings, such as preschools and kindergartens, often provide opportunities for children to work together, share experiences, and develop social skills.
Contextual Learning: Dewey advocated for education that is meaningful and tied to real-life contexts. Early childhood education should help children connect what they learn in the classroom to their everyday experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Reflective Thinking: Dewey believed that children should be encouraged to think critically and reflect on their experiences. In early childhood education, this can mean asking open-ended questions, promoting problem-solving, and encouraging children to express their thoughts and feelings.
Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Dewey's ideas align with the concept of developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood education, which recognises that educational activities and expectations should be in line with a child's developmental stage and individual readiness.
Teacher as a Facilitator: Dewey saw teachers as facilitators of learning rather than the sole disseminators of knowledge. Early childhood educators often take on this role by creating environments that encourage exploration and discovery.
Education as a Lifelong Process: Dewey's ideas emphasised the idea that education is not confined to formal schooling but is a lifelong process. This perspective encourages the idea that early childhood education sets the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Dewey's theory has had a lasting impact on Innovative Early Learning. His emphasis on child-centered, experiential, and social learning has played a significant role in shaping our philosophy and approach to early childhood education, which often prioritises the holistic development of our young learners.