Educational Theories and Influencers

Flashcards covering key educational theories, historical figures, and concepts related to education.

Utilitarian Education

Education that is practical and useful—focused on preparing students for work and everyday life.

Clean Slate / Tabula Rasa

The idea that children are born with a mind like a blank slate—free of ideas, beliefs, or knowledge.

Child Depravity Theory

The belief that children are naturally sinful or morally flawed and need strict discipline and religious training to become good.

Comenius

A 17th-century Czech philosopher known as the father of modern education, who promoted universal education and learning through the senses.

Plato

A Greek philosopher who viewed education as a path to discovering truth and justice, advocating education based on ability.

Thomas Jefferson

An American Founding Father who believed in public education for all and promoted merit-based education.

Educational Reform

Movements that aimed to change the educational system to be more equitable and accessible for all individuals.

Indirect Learning

A method of learning that allows students to discover knowledge through exploration and inquiry.

Direct Learning

Structured, teacher-led instruction.

Student-Centered Learning

An educational approach that emphasizes the interests, needs, and active participation of the learner.