Children in the View of John Dewey

Education is one of the extremely important and sensitive processes which, if not provided correctly and systematically, can do some irreparable damages to the present and future lives of individuals. The common system of education results in children’s passivity and, consequently, suppresses their capabilities and talents. According to Dewey, the atmosphere of the house and school should be such to promote happiness and vitality in children. The materials taught to children should match their level of understanding and perception and satisfy their needs. They should also involve some applied aspects so that there would be no gap between their real lives and what is taught to them. Through a thorough knowledge of the needs and cognitive and affective characteristics of children, parents and teachers, while contributing to the development of their talents and interests, must guide them to the right direction so that the process of teaching and training becomes more efficient and productive. The teaching of concepts to children should be accompanied with inquiry so that it leads to the growth of their critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities. In this way, the children of today will turn into the aware and democrat citizen of tomorrow.