John Dewey on Student and Teacher Relationship

According to Dewey, “the teacher is a mentor and director, he steers the boat, but the energy that drives him must come from those who are learning.” Dewey views teacher as a guide who plays a role of helper in the child’s development. According to him, the teacher is an important part of the educational institution who works for shaping the future of the children. The teacher acts as a social worker as he prepares the children for a good and bright future. These children are the ones who build a better nation and society.

Dewey understands that for a teacher the more important thing is to understand the interests and needs of the child, rather than filling knowledge in them. The teacher must know that a child learns best from his own experiences or by doing tasks himself/herself.

The teacher’s first effort should be to prepare the child for his future life and to show him the right direction being the guide. It is his responsibility to provide the children useful education so that they become competent to resolve problems of their lives.