Idealism

The word “idealism” is mainly associated with the English word “Ideas” and “ideal.” Idealism is concerned with the human supremacy of mind and self, their own views to human beings and universe in association with mind of human being. However, it differs from naturalism as it can maintain the material and physical universe to a high level according to the nature of the human being and universe. Here, matter or object can be the creation of mind, but at the end the real is the idea behind matter. The world where we are living is at a physical state and we can change it through the ideas and imagination of human being.

Famous philosopher Pluto believes that the ultimate reality consists mainly of ideas. He and his teacher Socrates heavily argued that the foundation or root for philosophy is ideas. Known as idealistic philosopher, Socrates introduced the importance of question answer or queries. He believed that such technique and dialogues are the tools for gaining information. On the other hand, Plato heavily emphasized logical reasoning as the major tools and medium in order to gain ideas. Whether they have different view about ideas but both the philosopher has taken ideas as the major source for human beings development and existence in this world.

Other philosopher believes that this world is created by god. The “universal mind” or “God” is the reality which has been given birth by the human being’s knowledge and education. In this universe, man is the only creation which has got power to achieve knowledge. They can use knowledge as a powerful tool. Education should be able to drive a man in a correct and right path by unfolding his/her divines through self- consciousness and it is the main implication of idealism on education. Education should be able to lead a man to perfection. European educational figure, Friend rich Frobel, believes that education should teach and guide a man to clearness; to face with the natural world and to unite with God.

The followers of great German philosopher Johann Fried rich Herbart, has uniquely formalized his classroom method of teaching. The main function of teacher was to share their knowledge with the help of following five formal steps in classroom teaching:

Preparation:

It mainly focuses on recalling or sharing the past experiences and linking with education.

Presentation:

This method helps to outline the new material and concepts.

Association:

It is the step where teacher used to compare new ideas with the old one.

Generalization:

With the help of presentation, new material can be achieved or developed and with that newly formed material we can derive new rules and general principles.

Application:

It involves relating new generalization to specific and unique scenarios.

Hence, the selection of content or syllabus, grading system and organization of presentation and dialogues was brought out to develop human being.

The idealist argues that, idealism implies that there needs to be a consistent guide and help from teacher which is very important for achieving self-realization. Teacher needs to be iconic or should be able to play a role model of self-realization.