John Dewey and William Bagley

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how there have always been philosophical battles between progressive thinkers and conservative thinkers when it comes to the education of America's children. In particular it looks at two of the brightest minds in the development of the American educational structure, the classic progressive John Dewey, and the quintessential conservative, William Chandler Bagley, and examines their philosophies. It also shows how many of their debating points are as poignant and pertinent today as back then.

Outline
Introduction to Educators John Dewey and William Bagley
Introduction to John Dewey's Progressive Educational Theories
Introduction to William Bagley's Philosophy of Essentialism in Education
John Dewey on Emphasizing "Experience" as Part of Public Education
William Bagley's Essentialism: Practical Things Should be Taught
John Dewey's Vision for Schools: Democracy in Action
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"William Chandler Bagley was born in Detroit, received a Bachelor of Arts degree at Michigan State College, a Master's at the University of Wisconsin, and a Ph.D. at Cornell University, in 1900. After teaching in elementary schools, he became professor of education at a teachers college in Columbia, until 1940. He became a vigorous opponent of "pragmatism and progressive education, asserting that the value of knowledge is very great on its own merits, not just as an instrument to accomplish something with. He was critical of other teachers and educators for failing to emphasize what he believed to be important " a systematic study of academic subject matter."

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