Progressive Theory

In the fire service we often focus on repetition and hands-on training. Dewey was one of the founding fathers who believed that we learn through a hands-on approach. He believed on a progressive educational system rather than a traditional. I feel that John Dewey’s approach to a more progressive school system leads not only to a better learning environment, but also better participation and motivation from students. These students don’t feel as bound by specific rules, and they are able to retain the information easier.  John Dewey taught us through a progressive teaching style we are able better reach out to our students.  Our students deserve this, and as instructors it is our duty allow them to positively grow through the introduction of education.  In John Dewey Experience and Education he states, “It is part of the educator’s responsibility to see equally to two things: First, that the problem grows out of the conditions of the experience being had in the present, and that it is within the range of capacity of students; and, secondly, that it is such that it arouses the learner an active quest for information and production of new ideas"  (Dewey, 1997, p. 79).  

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