Similarities Between Horace Mann And John Dewey

Throughout the history of American education, the purpose of the institution reflects the events occurring in society. John Dewey states that “the modification going on in the method and curriculum of education is as much a product of the changed social situation, and as much an effort to meet the needs of the new society that is forming, as are changes in modes of industry and commerce.” The events of the world reflect in education, and this impacts the curriculum of schools and the values education promotes. This is seen through the reform movements of Horace Mann and John Dewey, as well as in more recent educational events. This paper will investigate the connection between education and the principles of the time, through Turning Points in American History,
The creation of a public educational system was increasingly viewed as a basic right and an essential piece of civic formation, a sentiment expressed by the early thinkers. Industrialization and immigration were key triggers for the common school movement. Industrialization led to urbanization and an increase of a concentrated population of industrial workers in cities. The emphasis on providing strong education for the working class stemmed from the sentiment that, in order for a democratic system to work, the people must be educated. John Pulliam states in History of Education in America, that “the idea that schools could provide a ladder by which one might climb socially and economically was widespread.” Industrial workers who wanted better lives for their children saw education as way to improve the future. In Industrial America, education served as a platform for social mobility, which was a motivation for its spread. Ultimately, thoughts surrounding education’s role in society evolved due to changing circumstances throughout the