FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which educational philosophy emphasizes accountability in meeting academic standards?

1. Constructivism

2. Behaviorism

3. Perennialism

4. Essentialism

The correct answer is: Essentialism

The focus of essentialism is on teaching essential skills and knowledge that students need to become productive members of society. This educational philosophy emphasizes a rigorous curriculum aligned with academic standards and accountability for both students and teachers. Essentialists believe in a core curriculum that prepares students with the foundational knowledge necessary for success in life, thereby ensuring that educational outcomes meet specific standards and benchmarks. This emphasis on accountability is crucial in today's education system, where educators are increasingly held responsible for student performance on standardized assessments. Essentialism seeks to ensure that educational practices yield measurable results, aligning teaching methods and content closely with academic expectations. This helps nurture an environment in which both students and educational institutions strive to meet predefined educational standards.