Organization of Curriculum Content Based on the Analysis of the Concept of Science in the Perspectives of John Dewey and Allameh Tabatabai

Abstract

The aim of this research was to clarify and analyze the organization of curriculum content from the perspectives of John Dewey and Allameh Tabatabai. This analysis is based on each of their interpretations of the meaning and concept of science. Both perspectives describe a process of the formation of science that begins with a problem. This study was conducted using the deductive method of rational necessity and logical analysis of library data. After a detailed analysis of the process of scientific formation from the viewpoints of both thinkers, it was concluded that this process could significantly impact the organization of curriculum content. Therefore, the prevailing approach to the organization of content in both perspectives was problem-centered; however, this paper presents arguments showing that the problem-centeredness of Allameh Tabatabai and John Dewey fundamentally differs. This difference is rooted in each of their understandings of the meaning of science. While John Dewey confines the meaning of science to empirical science, his issues remain at that level. In contrast, Allameh Tabatabai defines science at a broader level, giving problems a more extensive meaning. In relation to his approach, Dewey critiques the subject-centered approach and emphasizes only integrative organization. The results of this research indicate that Allameh Tabatabai's intellectual system, with his interpretation of the meaning and levels of issues, can integrate both subject-centered and integrative organization and provide more comprehensive suggestions concerning various issues faced by students.

Keywords

• content organization
• problem-oriented
• curriculum
• the concept of science
• john dewey
• allameh tabatabai