What Is Existentialism in Curriculum?

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Jane Flores

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom and choice. It is a view of life that places great importance on the individual’s experience of the world around them.

In recent years, existentialism has become an important part of the curriculum in many schools and universities. In this article, we will explore what existentialism is in the context of curriculum.

What Is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that began in Europe in the early 20th century. It emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility for one’s own actions. According to existentialists, our lives have no inherent meaning or purpose – it is up to us to give our lives meaning through our choices and actions.

Existentialism in Curriculum

In education, existentialism is often used as a framework for understanding how students learn and develop. It emphasizes the importance of individuality and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning.

One way that existentialism can be applied in the classroom is through student-centered learning. This approach allows students to take an active role in their own learning process, rather than simply being passive recipients of information.

Another way that existentialism can be applied in education is through experiential learning. This involves creating opportunities for students to engage with real-world problems and issues, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in practical ways.

The Benefits of Existentialism in Curriculum

There are several benefits to incorporating existentialist principles into the curriculum:

1. Encourages Critical Thinking: By emphasizing individuality and personal responsibility, existentialism encourages students to think critically about their own beliefs and values.

2. Promotes Creativity: Existentialist principles encourage creativity by emphasizing personal expression and individuality.

3. Fosters Resilience: By emphasizing personal responsibility, existentialism promotes resilience and encourages students to persevere through challenges.

4. Enhances Learning Outcomes: By encouraging students to take an active role in their own learning process, existentialism can lead to better learning outcomes and improved academic performance.

Conclusion

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. In education, it can be applied through student-centered learning and experiential learning. By incorporating existentialist principles into the curriculum, educators can promote critical thinking, creativity, resilience, and better learning outcomes.