John Dewey Presented Fundamental Ideas

John Dewey presented fundamental ideas regarding the nature of education and the role of the educator in the learning process. According to his principles, it was not only the act of learning that proves important, but also the experience of learning as well. This experience can help influence later academic achievement and provide a solid base for students to enjoy the act of learning, thus creating a stronger motivation to continue to work hard while learning, with the expected reward of positive experiences.

Dewey has several conceits that link long-term learning and skill building with the here and now. According to Dewey, experience is the present which happens around us as we go through life. It is the environment in which we live and learn than can change from situation to situation. Experience can influence future developments in learning. According to his philosophies, a good educational environment would then also cater to the child's present experience; educational experiences should be positive in order to provide motivation for the child as he or she continues to learn. It is, therefore, the role of the teacher or educator to provide a positive educational experience for his or her students. Teachers must boost the immediate value of the learning environment to best provide positive educational experiences for students. In order to best do this, teachers and educators must also understand the realm of human experience and knowledge as a way to perfect their own skills in providing the best educational experiences. This approach to education can be a source of constructive citizenship in the United States. By understanding the human experience, we better understand each other and can then provide the best experiences for others as well as ourselves.