In PERENNIALISM , it is believed that one should teach the things that one deems to be of everlasting importance to all people everywhere. Since details of fact change constantly, these cannot be the most important . PERENNIALISM
One should teach principles , not facts. Since people are human, one should teach first about humans , not machines or techniques. Since people are people first, and workers second if at all, one should teach liberal topics first, not vocational topics. PERENNIALISM
PERENNIALISM suggests that the focus of education should be the ideas that have lasted over centuries. They believe the ideas are as relevant and meaningful today as when they were written. They recommend that students learn from reading and analyzing the works by history's finest thinkers and writers . PERENNIALISM
The educational focus of PERENNIALISM is on the need to return to the past , namely, to the universal truths and absolutely reason and faith. Perennialists believe that God and education goes together hand in hand, and that education prepares a person for life. They also believe that schooling may come to an end but a person will never stop learning throughout their lifetime. PERENNIALISM
The theory of PERENNIALISM also believes that the environment plays a big role in teaching someone. A person learns by experience . The Philosophies of Idealism, Realism, and Neo-Thomism are embedded in this theory. They believe that having a relationship to a spiritual being is necessary for understanding the cosmos or universe . PERENNIALISM
Mortimer Adler, a philosopher and educator, advocated for a classical, "Great Books" approach to education, emphasizing the importance of philosophical dialogue and critical thinking to foster a well-rounded and free-thinking citizenry.
Jacques Maritain, a prominent 20th-century philosopher, advocated for "Integral Humanism," arguing that secular humanism was incomplete because it neglected the spiritual dimension of human nature, emphasizing the importance of the individual and the Christian community.
Robert Maynard Hutchins, former president of the University of Chicago, viewed curriculum as "permanent studies," emphasizing core subjects like grammar, rhetoric, logic, and mathematics for basic education, and grounded college education in liberal education.
Helps students understand the principle of human knowledge Teacher is called a “tutor” Role of Teacher
Leads discussion in classroom Guides and mentors, whose task is not to transmit information but to pose questions that further students ability to develop as thinkers in their own right “St. John Website” Role of Teacher
Leaning for learners sake To practice taught moral values Individuals should think deeply, analytically, flexibility and imaginatively. Role of Students
Focuses on attaining cultural literacy, stressing students’ growth in enduring disciplines. Curriculum
They recommend that students learn from reading and analyzing the works by history’s finest thinkers and writers. Curriculum
Everlasting Little flexibility Classic books Sharpen intellectual powers Enhance moral qualities Curriculum