Which education philosophy treats education as a means to critique society and work toward social reform?

• A. Reconstructionism
• B. Constructivism
• C. Pragmatism
• D. Humanism

Answer: (A)

Education viewed as a tool to critique society and pursue social reform is Reconstructionism. This philosophy holds that schooling should not just transfer knowledge but also analyze social injustices, question existing institutions, and prepare students to participate in democratic change. Classrooms under this view often tackle real-world problems, incorporate community issues, and empower students to design and implement solutions, guided by teachers as change agents and facilitators. In contrast, constructivism centers on how learners build understanding through experience rather than aiming for societal change; pragmatism emphasizes practical problem-solving and experimentation without an inherent mandate for social overhaul; humanism focuses on the learner's personal growth and self-fulfillment rather than broad social transformation. Therefore, the description matches Reconstructionism.