What educational philosophy supports the notion that the teacher is the sole authority in her area of specialization?

Essentialism is an educational philosophy that emphasizes a core set of knowledge and skills that students need to acquire, with the teacher serving as the primary authority in conveying this information. Teachers who adopt an essentialist approach focus on the fundamentals of education, which often includes traditional subjects such as mathematics, science, literature, and history. The teacher's role is seen as crucial in guiding students through this essential body of knowledge, making their authority in the classroom centered on their expertise and specialization.

This philosophy asserts that education should be rigorous and focused, thereby enhancing the teacher's status as the sole authority in their subject area. Essentialists typically endorse structured curricula and standard assessment methods, reinforcing the belief that the teacher knows the most effective strategies for imparting essential knowledge to students. By fostering an environment centered around the teacher's expertise, essentialism promotes a clear line of authority and responsibility in the educational process.