In the article, “John Dewey and the Challenge of Progressive Education” written by Leonard J. Waks, the construct of education aligning with a global society is discussed. From talking about problematic qualities of memorization methods of teaching, to trends in education regarding out-of-school connections, this article provides the reader with information on how learning can be more sufficient with certain methods.

The first point worth noting, is the discussion of different needs of knowing. Currently, schools surround themselves with curriculums based upon learning methods such as memorization, etc. (76). However, this approach at teaching is quite unnecessary in the real world. What is necessary to know in a real world setting is something such as unstructured scenarios in which one must solve. This knowing can only be learned through practical understanding, and not necessarily taught (76). In fact, this more needed understanding can even interfere with the methods one is taught, such as reasoning in specific procedures (76). 

Apart from this slight problem Leonard J. Waks talks about in the article, he also offers a few suggestions on aligning education with the real world. He discusses high-tech media, and its need in the classroom (77). The realization is that students access technology outside of school quite a lot, and lesson plans need to meet this standard. Curriculums need to keep up with the students knowing in technology to align with the global network society (77). The trends in education need to keep up with the students’ lives, and while activities in life advance, the curriculum must work around this as well.

For one to build upon these educational trends, it’s important to acknowledge daily life outside of school. Educators could use data on what’s best for students, understand students on a global basis, and acknowledge the lives students live outside of classes. For example, the newest technology should be used to advance the students’ learning, as well as align with the skills students may already know from owning technology in their own lives. When the world advances, the schools should incorporate this into learning in the best methods for their students.

Works Cited

Waks, Leonard J. “John Dewey and the Challenge of Progressive Education”. International Journal of Progressive Education, Volume 9. 2013. PDF File.