What is the core belief of Existentialism in education?

The core belief of Existentialism in education centers around the idea that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life. This philosophical approach emphasizes personal experience, choice, and self-discovery as essential elements of the learning process. In an existentialist framework, education is not merely about the transmission of knowledge or the adherence to a standardized curriculum, but rather about encouraging learners to explore their own identities, values, and beliefs.

By prioritizing the individual's role in defining their own existence and understanding their place in the world, educators who embrace existentialism foster an environment where students are empowered to think critically and make choices that reflect their authentic selves. This approach recognizes the importance of personal agency, suggesting that true learning occurs when students engage deeply with their experiences, explore their interests, and confront the complexities of life, rather than passively absorbing information dictated by authority figures or standardized curricula.