What was a key characteristic of progressive education?

A key characteristic of progressive education is the emphasis on greater freedom and spontaneity in play. This approach prioritizes an experiential learning process where children are encouraged to explore their interests, engage in hands-on activities, and learn through play. It values the natural curiosity of children and recognizes that learning occurs in a variety of contexts beyond the formal classroom environment.

Progressive education advocates for the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which aligns with allowing children the freedom to make choices in their learning experiences. By fostering a playful and flexible learning atmosphere, progressive education seeks to cultivate a more holistic development for children, catering to their social, emotional, and intellectual growth. This stands in stark contrast to methods like strict adherence to a traditional curriculum, an emphasis on standardized testing, or a focus on rote memorization, which limit creativity and the individual exploration necessary for meaningful learning.