Which educational philosophy emphasizes teaching based on student interests and experiences?

Progressivism is an educational philosophy that greatly emphasizes the importance of student interests and experiences in the learning process. This approach advocates for education that is rooted in the realities of students' lives, encouraging them to engage actively with their surroundings and to learn through doing. Progressivism focuses on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the development of the social consciousness necessary for functioning in a democratic society.

In practice, this means that educators prioritize creating a curriculum that is relevant and meaningful to students, often incorporating project-based learning and collaborative activities that reflect students' interests. By promoting experiential learning, progressivism encourages students to take ownership of their educational journey, making connections between their experiences and the knowledge they are acquiring.

The other philosophies listed tend to adopt more traditional approaches. Essentialism focuses on a specific body of knowledge that students must learn, typically emphasizing core subjects. Behaviorism centers on observable learning behaviors and often employs direct instruction to shape student behavior. Perennialism advocates for teaching ideas that are everlasting and emphasizes classical texts and enduring truths rather than individual student interests. Each of these philosophies has its own merits, but they do not prioritize student interests and experiences in the same way that progressivism does.