What Classical Education REALLY Means — Traditional, Progressive, Neoclassical & More

What Classical Education REALLY Means — Traditional, Progressive, Neoclassical & More

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network June 11, 2025 Duration: 44:10
What do people _really_ mean when they say "classical," "traditional," or "progressive" education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we break down the most common terms in the world of classical education. From classical and neoclassical to traditional, vocational, and progressive models, we explore where these ideas come from, how they’re used today, and why definitions matter.   Whether you’re new to classical education or trying to explain it to others, this episode will help you clarify your terms, understand key differences, and see why classical education is more than just a label.   Get _A Defence of Classical Education_ from our website: https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/mp/a-defence-of-classical-education/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173   Read an article from Martin about the definition of Classical Education: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/what-classical-education-1/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173   "Definitions"  *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  _Independent People_—Halldor Laxness— (Paul)   _You Are What You Love_—James K.A. Smith (Tanya)   _Mystery Novel_—Georgette Heyer (Tanya)  _Passing the Torch_—Louis Marcus (Martin) _The Medieval Mind of C.S. Lewis_—Jason M. Baxter (Martin) 

Classical Et Cetera from The Memoria Press Podcast Network is a series of conversations that delve into the heart of a classical education, exploring its principles, practices, and enduring relevance. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's a practical guide built from the experiences of those actively shaping this educational landscape. Each episode features educators in the classroom, authors who craft the curricula, publishers who bring these resources to life, and the visionaries who see the bigger picture. Together, they unpack the ideas, challenges, and successes inherent in teaching and learning with a classical lens. You'll hear specific examples, thoughtful debates on methodology, and reflections on how ancient wisdom applies to modern students. The dialogue in this podcast naturally extends beyond mere textbooks to consider the broader cultivation of intellect and character. Whether you're a seasoned teacher, a homeschooling parent, or simply curious about educational philosophy, these discussions offer grounded insights and actionable wisdom. Tune in for an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing work of building a meaningful education, one thoughtful conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Classical Et Cetera
Podcast Episodes
Why Poetry Belongs in Classical Education Curriculum [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:03
What does poetry offer that prose cannot? In this week’s Classical Et Cetera, we explore how verse builds literacy, memory, and a love of language. Discover how rhythm, structure, and beauty shape the mind and soul, and…
Ask Us Anything! Classical Et Cetera Mailbag [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:51
In this special mailbag episode of Classical et Cetera, we are answering questions straight from our listeners! From classical education and the history of philosophy to standardized testing and watching movies, nothing…
Horatius at the Bridge & Memory Work in Classical Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:11
Why do students in classical education memorize all 70 stanzas of Thomas Babington Macaulay’s Horatius at the Bridge? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we explore one of the most demanding—and most rewarding—academ…
How to Teach the Dark Parts of History: Columbus, Slavery, Holocaust [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:20
What does it mean to teach history truthfully? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ , we tackle how to teach Christopher Columbus facts with honesty, from elementary school to teaching history in middle school and hi…
Should Students Study Pagan Beliefs in a Classical Education? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:28
On this week's Classical Et Cetera, Memoria Press takes on one of our most common questions in classical Christian education: Why should Christians study paganism at all? We explore how to approach pagan philosophy, lite…
How the Founding Fathers' Classical Education Shaped America [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:51
Who were the Founding Fathers — and what is the education that shaped them? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ , we explore the rigorous classical education that influenced America’s founders and the birth of a nat…
August vs September: When Should You Start School? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:55
This week's Classical Et Cetera is our official back-to-school episode! Join us as we consider not just dates on a calendar but the seasonality of school itself. Where does the fall start come from? Is it better to start…
What Are the Liberal Arts? Not What College Told You! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:24
Curious what a liberal arts education really is? What trivium and quadrivium mean? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we unpack the historic meaning of the liberal arts and explain how they shaped true classical edu…