Which educational philosophy focuses on discovering and cultivating a child's full potential for societal betterment?

The educational philosophy that centers on discovering and cultivating a child's full potential for societal betterment is idealism. This approach emphasizes the development of individual moral and intellectual capacities, aiming to mold children into enlightened and responsible citizens who can contribute positively to society. Idealism focuses on the importance of ideas and ideals, encouraging educators to instill values, critical thinking, and a strong sense of ethics in students. The belief is that by nurturing these qualities, individuals can not only achieve personal growth but also work towards the betterment of society as a whole.

In contrast, other philosophies such as realism, existentialism, and pragmatism have different foundational principles that guide their educational practices. Realism often emphasizes practical skills and observable phenomena, while existentialism focuses on individual choice and personal meaning. Pragmatism encourages experiential learning and adaptation, but doesn't primarily focus on idealistic cultivations of societal virtues as a core component. Idealism’s commitment to fostering the best in each child aligns closely with the goal of societal advancement, making it the correct choice in this context.