Traditional Teaching Vs Progressive Teaching: What Works Best?

27th December 2023

School administrators are frequently faced with the dilemma of whether to adopt modern or traditional teaching methods in their institutions. Teachers have used what is now called the conventional way of teaching to give all pupils direct knowledge and facts. Teachers occupy a central position in this instructional style. They make the decisions about what to teach and how to teach it as gatekeepers of information. Here are two of the most debatable teaching methods you need to know about to make an informed decision.

What Is the Traditional Method Of Teaching?

The traditional teaching method is teacher-centric and takes place within the four walls of the classroom. In this case, the teacher is the only knowledgeable person and upholds the instructor's hegemony in the classroom. Additionally, every facet of learning happens at its own pace. The drill and rote method of memorizing is used by instructors in the conventional teaching approach. Children learn by memorization and repetition while using this strategy. There's not much room for critical thought at all.

What Is Progressive Education?

Progressive education is an educational concept that emphasizes social responsibility, experiential learning, and critical thinking abilities. A small number of educational establishments and schools have embraced and implemented this style of instruction to provide pupils with a hands-on learning experience.

Progressive educators feel that rather than being constrained by what the system has decided is suitable for them, children should be allowed the chance to explore their interests and uncover their passions. It prioritizes kids' academic, emotional, and social growth. Another well-known name for it is child-centered education.

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What Is The Difference Between Traditional And Progressive Education?

Here is how traditional and progressive education are different from each other:

1. Traditional Approach

In the traditional method of education:
 

• A set of curricula is taught
• It is difficult to be creative or to think critically
• This knowledge helps students acquire cultural capital and establishes the groundwork for further education
• It also serves as a reminder of humanity's tremendous intellectual achievements
• Education is offered in a calm, controlled setting by an experienced teacher

2. Progressive Approach

In the progressive method of education:
 

• It develops transferable abilities like problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking
• These skills enable students to succeed in a constantly evolving information environment
• It prepares them for future careers and provides them the freedom to pursue their passions and create new things.
• Active creation and exploration activities that are student-centered are the best methods to teach these abilities.
• People learn best when they are personally involved, and everyone has a different definition of this.
• Opportunities to concentrate on the subjects and approaches they like should be provided.
   

Benefits And Challenges Of Traditional Teaching

The fact that conventional education has been around for a while and is well-known among educators is one of its advantages. Implementing a pre-established curriculum and coursework is easier for many teachers. The conventional structure seen in many educational systems facilitates students' transition from elementary to middle school, high school, and college, which is another advantage. Administrators can also supervise the use of standardized instructional strategies.

Students might develop a feeling of order and organization as they grow up thanks to the strict framework of traditional schooling. But this very advantage may also be one of its greatest drawbacks. One argument against conventional education highlights that the purpose of traditional schools is to eradicate uniqueness and produce productive workers. It's common to accuse traditional education of limiting creativity and treating pupils like information-hungry machines.

Benefits And Challenges Of Progressive Teaching

Teachers who practice progressive education acknowledge and value each student's unique talents and passions. Teachers don't only impart knowledge to their pupils and hope that they will memorize it and ace exams. Rather, they involve their pupils in active, hands-on learning via group projects, experimentation, and cooperation. Students can study subjects and topics they are enthusiastic about in this way.

Progressive education proponents contend that this approach increases the likelihood that kids will love learning and become lifelong learners. Outside of the classroom, students apply critical thinking abilities to assess and reassess their opinions on subjects and problems from the real world.

Progressive education was at first opposed in some circles. Opponents of these ideas include educators and administrators who think that progressive education may help children in the long term and inspire a passion for learning in them.

Pick What Works Best For You

Teaching ideas are common to both approaches and you should pick depending on your school’s culture and your own experience. You can also see what methods others have used successfully and ask your colleagues to share the best practices for you to select better. Furthermore, you can also pursue a Live Online International Teaching Diploma Course to learn about other approaches and pick the right fit for yourself.

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Written By : Sanjana