Progressivism in English Learning: Literature Review of The Independent Curriculum

Abstract

This literature review examines the principles of progressivism and their implementation within the Independent Curriculum, with a particular focus on English learning. Progressivism emphasizes experiential learning, promoting active engagement, critical thinking, and a student-centered approach. These principles align well with the goals of the Independent Curriculum, which seeks to foster autonomy, creativity, and holistic development in students. The review delves into how experiential learning practices, such as hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and real-world problem-solving, are integrated into the English teaching and learning process. It highlights the benefits of these approaches in enhancing language skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, preparing students for the complexities of the modern world. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges and opportunities of implementing progressivist strategies in diverse educational settings. Through an analysis of various studies and practical applications, this review underscores the potential of progressivism to transform traditional educational paradigms and improve student engagement and achievement within the Independent Curriculum framework, specifically in English language education.

Keywords: Progressivism, Independent Curriculum, English Learning

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of education, theories, and methodologies continually evolve to meet learners' diverse needs and adapt to changing educational paradigms such as behaviorism, cognitivism, progressivism, and constructivism. Many educators, particularly teachers, apply theories in the classroom according to their respective roles. Each theory serves distinct functions and purposes, with some degree of correlation among them. Among these theories, constructivism is a commonly implemented approach in teaching and learning activities, emphasizing active student engagement and knowledge construction through hands-on experiences.

John Dewey first formulated progressivism as a philosophical viewpoint which, while positing, with its cousin pragmatism, that experience is the only source of determination of what is knowledge that is capital K. Knowledge is not synonymous with belief, says the classic formulation in its insistence schema that no beliefs are knowledge unless they have been systematically grounded with experiential evidence. Furthermore, pragmatists say useful beliefs are obtained only when they have proven useful in the practice of science, a point echoed in the maxim of eventually false assertions of Karl Popper and Daniel Dennett. (Matusov, 2022)

In a learning process, therefore, the first step does not involve the imposition of information or something to learn, but determining what is to be learned by the receptacle. The second step involves providing opportunities for the student to learn and demonstrate learning in the particular medium, which reveals its connectivity to a form of knowledge the student must learn. The third step involves the cooperating of the student's behavior by way of this experience from overt behavior, the isomorphism of these cognitive and affective states (cognitive perception, understanding, generalization, and evaluation; affective values, feelings, response tendencies) in the three species responses to the learning situation. (Sumardi et al., 2020)

Learning must result in a change in the behavior of the organism when it functions directly with its environment. The occurrence of this kind of learning is a consequence of the experience the individual has in the place of ongoing interaction with the environment. This kind of learning is therefore at once inductive, insofar as conclusions are derived from particular experiences, and empirical, in that these experiences must substantiate the conclusions drawn. (Tolman, 2023)

Dewey had attempted to identify universal truths about life and had found no universals, as life is not static or fixed. Education, therefore, can only be teaching the process of growth. Dewey introduced the concept of the conditioned or relative aim. He thought of a goal as being neither fixed nor absolute, but customized according to the experience and purpose in relation to the student. The teacher emphasizes the method and the process. The idea is that the aim of education is growth of the person, but only the individual knows the kind of growth required and the experience needed in order to reach growth. The concept of progressive education is a mixture of scientific discipline and life. (Nikolaidis, 2021)

Progressivism is not seen as a romantic ideal, nor as solely a theory, but as the essential meaning of liberation education, or the type of education necessary in order to provide equality in our schools. Paul Kroll defined a key concept that is the progressive and the learning process. Kroll said that both the child and learning are fundamentally active. Learning is as natural a growth process in the child as is the physical and psychological maturation process. Each experience of the child - whether it is symbolic, mental or physical, and experienced - is the child's own. The student, in this case, the child, as a learner is basically the judge of his own life, and further, that no boundary can be set on this growing. (Matusov, 2022)

Progressivism is an educational perspective that posits certain central premises about the learning process. The perspective appears in various forms, with divergent authors emphasizing different features of the view, but generally, the following points, associated with this perspective, can be derived.

Literature methods

This method used is a review literature or literature review. Library research or literature review is research that examines or critically reviews knowledge, ideas, or findings contained in a body of academically oriented literature (academic-oriented literature), as well as formulating theoretical contributions and methodology for a particular topic. As for the nature of the research. This is descriptive analysis, namely the regular breakdown of existing data obtained, then given understanding and explanation so that it can be understood well by readers.

The steps taken in this literature review research adapt the procedure proposed which consists of 1) choosing a study topic, 2) searching for and selecting the right sources and relevant, 3) analyzing and synthesizing the study results, and 4) present analysis results. For the data analysis process, researchers used steps suggested namely data reduction, verification and withdrawal conclusion. At the data reduction stage, the researcher selects or sorts data collected from books and journals, which may be relevant to research purposes. At the data presentation stage, the researcher presents the data in form narrative adapted to the research sub-focus. Finally, at the withdrawal stage conclusion, the researcher interprets the data then compares the results obtained with theory and relevant previous research results. (Adisel, & Suryati, 2022)

Literature Review

History of Progressivism

The birth of progressivism was motivated by dissatisfaction with the implementation of education which was very traditional, tended to be authoritarian and students were only used as learning objects. This flow is rooted in the spirit of social reform at the beginning of the 20th century, namely the American political reform movement. The progressive flow of American education refers to educational reform in western Europe. Another opinion states that the flow of progressivism historically emerged in the 19th century, but its rapid development was only seen at the beginning of the 20th century, especially in the United States. Although these two opinions have slightly different views, they can be drawn The common thread is that the rapid development of this flow of progressivism occurred in the 20th century. Historically, the emergence of the flow of progressivism was greatly influenced by the figures of the philosophy of pragmatism as mentioned above, such as Charles S. Peirce, William James and John Dewey, as well as the experimentalist school of Francis Bacom. Apart from that, John Locke is a figure in the philosophy of political freedom and J.J. Rousseu with the Philosophy of Progressivism. Tri Utomo, I., & Ifadah, L. (2020).

Progressivism Learning Philosophy in the Independent Curriculum

The "Merdeka Belajar" concept introduced by Education Minister Nadiem Makarim emphasizes flexible, experience-based learning, aiming to create a more enjoyable learning environment focused on developing students' character. This policy replaces the National Examination with the Minimum Competency Assessment and Character Survey conducted in grades 4, 8, and 11, and delegates the National Standard School Examination to schools for more diverse assessments. Simplification of the Lesson Plan to one page and the expansion of the zoning system in new student admissions are also implemented to provide more opportunities.

This concept aligns with John Dewey's philosophy of progressivism, which emphasizes the freedom to learn and direct experience as the best methods of education. Dewey highlights the importance of teachers as facilitators and educational institutions as laboratories for change, where students can freely develop their potential. Progressive education focuses on character and social aspects and aims for education to keep pace with changing times. Thus, "Merdeka Belajar" is expected to bring positive changes to the Indonesian education system, creating an enjoyable learning environment and producing competent and virtuous students. (Adisel, & Suryati, 2022)

Implementing Progressivism in the Independent Curriculum for English Leraning

       Implementing progressivism within the Independent Curriculum for English education emphasizes flexible, experience-based learning, aligning with John Dewey's philosophy. This approach prioritizes student-centered learning, where learners actively participate in their education. In English education, this can be achieved by allowing students to choose topics of interest for projects and presentations, enhancing engagement and responsibility for their learning.

Progressivism also highlights the importance of real-world experiences in education. English educators can incorporate activities such as field trips, interviews with native speakers, and community projects where students use English in practical, real-life situations. These experiences help students see the relevance of their studies and apply their language skills outside the classroom. Collaborative learning is another key aspect, with group activities, peer reviews, and collaborative projects fostering teamwork, communication, and critical thinking.

Assessment methods in a progressive curriculum should be flexible, reflecting students' learning experiences. In English education, this includes portfolios, creative writing assignments, oral presentations, and peer assessments, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of students' skills and progress. Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills is crucial, using literature, debates, and discussions on current events to encourage analysis and reflection.

Integrating technology aligns with progressivism's adaptability to changing times. Online resources, educational apps, and digital storytelling tools make learning more interactive and accessible, offering personalized learning opportunities. The role of the teacher in a progressive classroom shifts to that of a facilitator, guiding students and providing support while encouraging independent exploration. This dynamic and interactive learning environment better prepares students for the complexities of the modern world.

Harsono, Y. A., & Purwanto, A. (2020)

Conclusion

Progressivism in education, rooted in the philosophy of John Dewey and pragmatism, emphasizes active student engagement, flexibility, and the importance of real-world experiences in learning. This approach contrasts with traditional, authoritarian methods, aiming to create enjoyable learning environments that nurture students' character and critical thinking skills. In the context of the Independent Curriculum and English education, implementing progressivism involves student-centered learning, real-world experiences like field trips and community projects, collaborative activities, flexible assessment methods, integration of technology, and a shift in the teacher's role to that of a facilitator. These practices align with Dewey's belief in education as a dynamic process of growth tailored to individual experiences and needs, preparing students for success in a changing world.