Thinking in Dewey's Experimentalist Education: The Contribution of the Internet and Digital Tools

Purpose —The purpose of this paper is to explain how the introduction of the Internet and digital tools renews and enriches John Dewey's experimentalist model for teaching and learning with particular attention to the place of and resources for higher order thinking. Design/Approach/Methods —The methods include a close exposition of Dewey's classical texts, and a thought experiment introducing ICT elements into Dewey's design diagrams for teaching and learning. Findings —Dewey's model has inherent difficulties, and that digital technologies helps resolve them. Originality/Value —With the Internet and new digital tools, teachers can design new virtual learning spaces and learning activities. Learners can use online information and communication tools to act more effectively using higher-order thinking skills.