Pragmatism in the classroom: Lessons from Dewey, Maxine Greene, and Eleanor Duckworth

Pragmatism in the classroom: Lessons from Dewey, Maxine Greene, and Eleanor Duckworth

Author: Ethical Schools December 3, 2025 Duration: 49:16
We speak with Dr. Susan Jean Mayer about her recent book, "Practicing Pragmatism Through Progressive Pedagogies: A Philosophical Lens for Grounding Classroom Teaching and Research." Dr. Mayer defines pragmatism in today's world and discusses the importance of critical exploration, democratic construction of knowledge, and openness to diversity of perspectives in the classroom. As teachers and learners, we can construct a shared set of values based on our experiential realities and come to understand these realities in coherent terms. Overview00:00-00:36 Intros 00:36-02:55 How to define pragmatism in today’s world 02:55-05:34 How to define final truth 05:34-06:53 How to define an ethical classroom 06:53-11:29 Ethical and democratic classrooms: the same or how they may differ 11:29-15:03 Knowledge, experience, and education 15:03-17:55 Critical exploration in the classroom 17:55-21:05 Classroom example of critical exploration 21:05-23:49 How a critical exploration teacher can intervene when students are wrong 23:49-27:25 When inviting different perspectives and belief systems doesn’t come naturally to students 27:25-28:56 Schools aren’t encouraging students to talk to one another; have succumbed to discourse of test scores 28:56-33:20 How teachers can become more comfortable with perspectives they may disagree with 33:20-37:11 How pragmatic teachers can deal with a school system structured to eliminate or minimize cultural diversity 37:11-40:47 Balancing ties to local communities with supporting students who want to break from the consensus of the community 40:47-47:19 How teachers can help create a system of education based on pragmatism 47:19- Outro TranscriptClick here to see the full transcript of this episode. References Book Practicing Pragmatism through Progressive PedagogiesA Philosophical Lens for Grounding Classroom Teaching and Research by Susan Jean Mayer Susan Jean Mayer's website Soundtrack by Poddington Bear 

Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
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Ethical Schools
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