Lesson 3.4 Perrenialism

PERENNIALISM

Is the school of thought that views truth as constant.

Is very conservative and inflexible philosophy of education.

It is based on the view that reality comes from fundamental fixed truths especially related to GOD.

PERENNIALISTS

Believe that one should teach the things that one deems to be of everlasting importance to all people everywhere.

They believe that the most important topics develop a person.

Should teach scientific reasoning, not facts.

PERENNIALISM

Because of human nature does not change, education should not change and should be the same to everyone;

since rationality is the highest attribute,   

human must use rationality to control           

instinctual nature.

Education’s task is to impart knowledge of eternal truth

Education is preparation for life, not imitation of life

Students should be taught certain subjects that introduce the student to life permanencies.

Curriculum

Christian doctrine, mathematics, history, foreign languages, logic, literature, character training, moral development.

Teaching Methods

Drill and practice, computations, recitation, induction, problem solving, discussion, debate and dialogue.

Classroom Management

Training of will, rigid structure, time on task, precision, orderliness, regularity, prayer and contemplation.

Evaluation

Objective examination and essay examination.

Role of the Teacher

Trained in the liberal arts, authority figure, disseminator of truth, director of mental calisthenics and scholar.

Leading Theories

Aristotle, Thomas Aquinas, Jacques Maritain, Robert Hutchins, Mortimer Adler and Allan Bloom

Ecclesiastes 12: 13 and 14

Here is my final conclusion: Fear GOD and obey HIS commands, for this is the duty of every person. GOD will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.