John Dewey- Why paradigm shifts are taking place:

"A paradigm shift is imminent when anomalies, disparties and incongruencies occur within a particular paradigm.  In fact, today we are faced with the same kind of situation in the world overall where our paradigm (also of education) is dysfunctional.  A paradigm shift is fundamentally changing the prevailing framework of theories, concepts and principles resulting in a new waay of thinking and doing, and redefining the existing world view.  A paradigm shift is determined by novel key concepts that govern a fundamental new way of thinking and doing."   (Slabbert,J.A.de Kock,M.D.Hattignh,A.2009:34).


“An ounce of experience is better than a ton of theory simply because it is only experience that any theory has vital and verifiable significance.”  John Dewey.

According to Dewey emphasis is placed on experiental learning end reflection to bring about the dialogic and trasformative process.  Reflections makes sure that learning is quality learning.  The classroom becomes a communal place where 'had'experiences are analysed.  Through co-operation of teachers and learners these experiences can by openly analysed and transformed.  (Slabbert,J.A.de Kock,M.D.Hattignh,A.2009:46).

A paradigm shift is thus taking place because teaching is now not teacher-centered, but a mutual co-operation between learners and teachers.  In other words, teaching is more student-centered now.