According to John Dewey, education should ideally be?

John Dewey, a prominent figure in educational philosophy, emphasized the importance of a child-centered approach to education. He believed that education should be designed around the needs, interests, and experiences of children, which allows them to engage actively in their learning process. This perspective encourages children to explore, ask questions, and learn through experience, rather than passively receiving information from a teacher.

In addition to being child-centered, Dewey also advocated for a curriculum that is relevant and connected to students' lives. This means that learning should not be seen as a series of disconnected subjects, but rather as an integrated experience that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By focusing on both the child and the curriculum, Dewey’s philosophy supports a holistic educational experience that prepares children to be active participants in a democratic society.

This approach contrasts sharply with teacher-centered models, which focus primarily on the teacher's role in delivering information, and rigid educational frameworks, which may limit creativity and critical thinking in favor of standardization and fixed structures. Dewey's insights encourage flexibility and adaptability in education, recognizing that children learn in diverse ways and at their own pace.