ROMANTIC NATURALISM_MERYLL JOYCE COS.pdf

phD subject

3. Romantic Naturalism in the
Modern Educational System
Elements of Romantic
Naturalism can be seen in
Montessori, Reggio Emilia,
and other progressive
educational approaches that
prioritize child-led learning.
There is still debate about
how much freedom should be
given to children in their
education.
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4. Modern Application of
Romantic Naturalism
Greater permissiveness in
education to avoid frustration
and neurotic behavior.
Child psychology plays a
major role in defining
educational objectives.
Focus on satisfying the
unique needs and desires of
each child, emphasizing
individual learning paths.
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5. The Balance of Freedom
and Structure
Romantic Naturalism offers a
compelling view of education
centered on freedom, but structured
learning also has its place.
The ideal educational philosophy
might incorporate both self-
expression and discipline.

6. Focus on the Individual: Both Locke and
Romantic Naturalists emphasize the
importance of the individual in education.
Locke’s concept of the mind as a "tabula
rasa" (blank slate) suggests that each
child is shaped by their own experiences.
Similarly, Romantic Naturalists, inspired
by Rousseau, focus on the uniqueness of
each child and their individual needs,
advocating for child-centered education.
1.
John Locke’s educational philosophy differs
significantly from Romantic Naturalism in several
key ways, but there are some areas of overlap that
can be highlighted:
Similarities:

7. Natural Development: Locke, like the
Romantic Naturalists, believed that
children’s development follows a natural
course, and education should nurture this
development rather than impose artificial
constraints. Both philosophies advocate
for respecting the natural progress of the
child, though Locke’s approach was more
restrained compared to the free self-
expression promoted by Romantic
Naturalism.
1.
John Locke’s educational philosophy differs
significantly from Romantic Naturalism in several
key ways, but there are some areas of overlap that
can be highlighted:
Similarities:

8. Role of Experience in Learning:
Locke’s emphasis on empiricism—
that knowledge comes from sensory
experience—aligns with the Romantic
Naturalist idea that children learn
best through interacting with their
environment. Both stress the
importance of real-world experiences
in shaping knowledge.
1.
John Locke’s educational philosophy differs
significantly from Romantic Naturalism in several
key ways, but there are some areas of overlap that
can be highlighted:
Similarities:

9. Rationalism vs. Emotionalism: Locke’s
philosophy is grounded in reason and rational
thought. He believed that education should
teach children to think logically and critically,
cultivating virtues through structured learning.
In contrast, Romantic Naturalism places
greater emphasis on emotional expression,
intuition, and the inherent goodness of human
nature, often favoring emotional and spiritual
development over logical reasoning.
Differences:

10. Discipline and Structure: Locke valued
discipline and the development of self-control
in education, which contrasts with the
Romantic Naturalist’s more permissive
approach. While Locke acknowledged the
importance of freedom, he believed that
education should involve guidance, structure,
and the gradual development of self-discipline.
Romantic Naturalists, on the other hand,
advocated for minimal interference in a child’s
natural development.
Differences:

11. Pragmatism vs. Idealism: Locke’s
educational philosophy was pragmatic,
focusing on practical learning that
prepares individuals for functioning in
society. Romantic Naturalism, inspired by
Rousseau, takes a more idealistic
approach, emphasizing personal freedom
and self-expression without as much
concern for practical societal outcomes.
Differences:

12. In conclusion, while both John Locke and Romantic
Naturalism emphasize the importance of the individual
and the role of experience in education, they diverge
significantly in their approaches. Locke’s educational
philosophy is grounded in rationalism, discipline, and
structured guidance, aiming to develop children’s
intellectual and moral virtues through practical learning.
In contrast, Romantic Naturalism, inspired by Rousseau,
advocates for minimal interference with a child’s natural
development, prioritizing emotional freedom, self-
expression, and personal instincts.
Conclusion

13. “Education is a natural
process carried out by the
child and is not acquired by
listening to words but by
experiences upon the
environment.”

14. Thank You!