Issues and Alternatives in Educational Philosophies by George R. Knight

by George R. Knight

Widely adopted as a textbook, Issues and Alternatives in Educational Philosophy has been a classic in its field for more than a quarter of a century. As a survey of philosophic issues relevant to the educational profession, it highlights the relationship between philosophic starting points and educational outcomes between theory and practice. Developed with brevity, breadth of coverage, and clarity of presentation as goals, this text is especially suited to fit the needs of undergraduate survey courses in educational philosophy, graduate students who need a quick review of the topic, and teachers of educational philosophy who want their students to spend maximum time in primary sources while utilizing a comprehensive survey text for orientation and overview.

Genres: Education, Philosophy, Teaching

Paperback

First published March 28, 1983

Reviews

[Norman Falk · Rating 4 out of 5]

An accesible introduction to key traditional, modern, and postmodern educational philosophies. The last chapter warns newcomers like me to guard against the temptation of shallow eclecticism. As someone who is drawn to look for integration everywhere, this point is well taken.

For Knight, the educator’s task task is not to gather pieces here and there from these different traditions but to systematically develop his/her own coherent philosophy of education. I agree, but I think it’s not that simple. It most likely works for nonconformists who love to re-invent the wheel, which is exactly what some of the masters behind the competing schools of thought did. But most of us are not that revolutionary. Knight’s point is important, but leaving it all for the individual educator to figure out is probably too daunting for most, except perhaps, if you are really motivated/interested, or are getting paid for it.

That said, the main content of the book seemed pretty solid to me.

[Rachel Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good overview and resource for different educational (and general) philosophies. It was also a good reminder that I need to be intentional with the decisions I make in my classroom based in my educational philosophy that has been rooted in the person and works of Jesus Christ.

[Lizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Concisely written, easy to understand. Last chapter was inspiring, in that as a teacher your educational philosophy is never finished. For a required text for a required class, can't say enough good things about this book. I have a better understanding of the educational philosophies that came before, while I reflect on which ones I agree with, think are ridiculous, and all of its combinations.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, basic explanation of the major educational philosophies.

[Brittnee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books gives a very clear and concise introduction to educational philosophy. It is perfect for those just beginning their research on the subject.

[Eric Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

The better alternative to Knight's other text on philosophy of education by being more concise while equally comprehensive. Excellent text for a course on philosophy of education.

[Jess Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

EXTREMELY dense but interesting overall