Which educational philosophy values student experiences as a foundation for learning?

Progressivism is an educational philosophy that emphasizes the importance of student experiences as a core aspect of the learning process. This approach believes that learners should actively engage with the material and their environment to construct knowledge. In a progressive educational setting, the curriculum is designed to be relevant and responsive to the interests and needs of students, allowing them to explore concepts through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and real-world experiences.

This philosophy advocates for learning that is not merely about memorizing facts or following a prescribed curriculum but rather about students developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Progressivism supports the idea that education should prepare students to be active participants in a democratic society, encouraging them to connect their learning to their lives and to society at large.

In contrast, the other philosophies mentioned focus on different aspects of education. Essentialism emphasizes a core curriculum and the transmission of essential knowledge and skills, behaviorism is centered on observable behaviors and reinforcement, while perennialism focuses on enduring ideas and classical texts. These philosophies do not place the same level of importance on experiential learning as a foundation for education.