Progressive education parallels? A critical comparison of early 20th century America and early 21st century Scotland

Abstract

Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland is at a watershed moment. The task, in order to meet new global circumstances, is to encourage bold and innovative thinking on learning and teaching, lessen the attainment gap for socially disadvantaged learners and increase vocational learning. These challenges closely reflect those of early 20th century America, where administrative progressives with an interest in school governance and curriculum arrangements pursued an agenda at odds with pedagogical progressives, who encouraged by the multiple writings of John Dewey, afforded a greater emphasis to the interests of the child. Critically analysing these tensions, through a detailed review of the Gary Schools Plan in Gary, Indiana highlights many of the concerns and influences Scottish education needs to critically consider.