3. ESSENTIALISM
Essentialism is an American philosophy of education which began in the 1930s & 1940s.
The two origins of essentialism is from idealism and realism.
Essentialist refers to “Basic Education”
William Bagley (1874- 1936), an American philosopher introduced the philosophy of essentialism
in education in the 1930s.
The word essentialism consist of two parts ,i.e ESSENTIAL & ISM
ESSENTIAL refers to “extremely importantor necessary” & ISM (suffix ) refers to belief.
Together they mean “ A Beleif that something is necessary ”
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Essentialism is the educational philosophy of teaching basic skills. This philosophy edvocates
training the mind. It is basically the view that some properties of objects are essential to them.
Essentialism tries to instill all students with the most essential or basic academic knowledge or skills
& character development.
Essentialism in education asserts that common and essential ideas and skills belonging to a certain
culture should be taught to all citizens at the same level at especially primary school level
The unification role of essentialism is represented in the core curriculum that aims to transfer the
essential knowledge and skills needed for the equal and well-balanced citizens
5. AIMS OF EDUCATION
Essentialism focuses on both subjects , traditional and character development . It focuses on ethics,
values, morals and discipline, things that are not learn by books. It provides education in a more
constructive manner.
Basic skills are focused . Hardwork is encouraged & discipline is maintained.
The aim of education to the essentialism is to ensure stability of the education. This is to promote
reasoning, train the mind & ensure a common culture for all citizens.
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Essentialist believe that students should be taught to be a model citizen.
Essentialist believe that teacher should teach traditional moral values & virtues.
The essentialist focus on on intellectual training in the areas of grammar,
literature & writing, mathematics, sciences, history and modern foreign
language
Essentialist believe in mastery learning.
7. ROLE OF A TEACHER
The role of a teacher has a primary focus.
A teacher is considered most important source of transfering knowledge.
Teacher is responsible for guiding the students towards a better future.
Teachers need to be patient, have a positive attitude in order to assist development of students mind
and body.
The teachers & parents should plan a guideline in order to maintain a proper discipline.
Family plays a vital role. According to essentialism, parents guidance is the most essential part.
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Essentialism is also teacher centred philosophy. It is similar to perenialism,however it emphasizes
personal development rather than necessary knowledge.
The teacher is an expert of content knowledge.
The teacher is accountable for student learning.
9. CURRICULUM
Essentialism emphasizes on the significance of curriculum which means that all subjects must be
studied by the students regardless of their interests factor as they might prove beneficial in future.
The foundation of essentialist curriculum is based on traditional disciplines such as math, natural
science, history, foreign language, and literature. Essentialists frown upon vocational courses.
Strong emphasis on basic skills elementary schools & on disciplined knowledge and scholastic
achievement in secondary schools.
There should be a common core curriculum that is taught to all students.
