Moral Education in the Philosophy of John Dewey: Towards an Integrative Educational Framework

Abstract

This research explores moral education in John Dewey’s philosophy as a cornerstone of both his pedagogical and ethical frameworks. It begins by highlighting Dewey’s view that morality is not a fixed set of prepackaged rules or instructions but rather requires methods of inquiry, reflection, and creativity. Through examining Dewey’s work, the study demonstrates that his conception of moral education cannot be understood apart from his instrumentalist philosophy, which emphasizes practical outcomes and lived experience in shaping ethical conduct.

The research underscores the central role of experience in forming moral values. Dewey links education as a means of social growth and human development with logic as a method of inquiry that guides ethical behavior. In this context, the child becomes the focal point of the educational process: curricula and teaching methods must cater to children’s psychological and social needs.

Dewey believes that linking education to the productive environment and society enhances the effectiveness of moral education and ensures the building of generations capable of facing real challenges. The school should be a miniature image of society and a real environment for learning through practice and experience, not an isolated place for teaching abstract lessons. The research confirms that Dewey's moral education is based on the idea of responsible freedom and providing children with the opportunity to research, investigate and deduce results, which ensures conscious and continuous moral growth.

The study concludes with several key findings, notably:

• Family-school integration is essential for shaping moral behavior.


• It is imperative to align school curricula with societal realities and needs, particularly in productive spheres.


• Logical thinking, infused with real-world experience, bolsters moral conduct.

Overall, the research presents a comprehensive view of the place of moral education in Dewey’s philosophy, demonstrating it to be a continuous process of reconstructing and directing experience for the benefit of both individuals and the community.Keywords: Self Help Groups, Women, Financial Independence, Economic Empowerment, Savings, Credit, Income Generation.