Introduction
Lesson planning is the backbone of effective teaching. A well-planned lesson ensures clarity of objectives, systematic presentation of content, and meaningful learning outcomes. Over time, various models of lesson planning have been developed, among which the Herbartian Approach holds a significant place in the history of education.
The Herbartian Model of Lesson Planning is based on the ideas of Johann Friedrich Herbart (1776–1841), a German philosopher and psychologist. This model emphasizes logical sequencing of content, mental preparation of learners, and clear presentation of knowledge. Though considered traditional, it continues to be an important topic in teacher education programmes and competitive examinations.
Meaning of Herbartian Approach
The Herbartian Approach refers to a teacher-centred, content-oriented model of lesson planning that focuses on systematic instruction and intellectual development of students. It is grounded in association psychology, which believes that new knowledge is best learned by relating it to previous knowledge.
According to Herbart, teaching should proceed in logical and sequential steps so that learners can easily understand, retain, and apply knowledge. The approach mainly emphasizes knowledge acquisition, rather than skill development or creativity.
Philosophy Behind the Herbartian Approach
The Herbartian model is based on the following philosophical assumptions:
Mind is a storehouse of ideas
Learning occurs through association of ideas
Teaching should be planned, organized, and systematic
Teacher plays a central role in the teaching-learning process
Education aims at intellectual development and character formation
Principles of the Herbartian Approach
The Herbartian lesson planning model is based on the following principles:
1. Principle of Correlation
New knowledge should be linked with learners’ previous knowledge.
2. Principle of Psychological Sequencing
Teaching should proceed from known to unknown, simple to complex, and concrete to abstract.
3. Principle of Interest
Students’ interest should be aroused through proper motivation and presentation.
4. Principle of Logical Presentation
Subject matter should be arranged in a logical and systematic manner.
5. Principle of Reinforcement
Learning should be reinforced through repetition and application.
Steps / Models of Herbartian Lesson Planning
The classical Herbartian approach consists of five formal steps, also known as Herbartian Models of Lesson Planning.
1. Preparation
Meaning
Preparation is the first step of the Herbartian lesson plan. It aims to prepare the mental state of students for learning new knowledge.
Objectives
To test previous knowledge
To arouse curiosity and interest
To establish a link between old and new knowledge
Role of Teacher
Ask introductory questions
Recall previous lessons
Create a learning atmosphere
Example
Before teaching “Evaporation,” the teacher asks students about drying clothes in sunlight.
2. Presentation
Meaning
Presentation refers to the systematic presentation of new content to students.
Objectives
To introduce new ideas clearly
To explain concepts step by step
To use appropriate teaching aids
Role of Teacher
Explain concepts using examples
Use blackboard, charts, or models
Maintain clarity and accuracy
Role of Students
Listen attentively
Observe and understand
3. Association (Comparison)
Meaning
Association involves comparing new knowledge with previous knowledge to form mental connections.
Objectives
To deepen understanding
To highlight similarities and differences
To strengthen retention
Teaching Techniques Used
Question–answer method
Comparison and contrast
Examples and counter-examples
Importance
This step ensures meaningful learning by integrating old and new ideas.
4. Generalization
Meaning
Generalization is the process of deriving general rules, principles, or definitions from specific examples.
Objectives
To formulate laws or principles
To ensure conceptual clarity
To promote logical thinking
Example
After several examples, students derive the definition of evaporation.
5. Application
Meaning
Application refers to using acquired knowledge in new situations.
Objectives
To test understanding
To transfer learning
To reinforce concepts
Methods
Numerical problems
Practical examples
Real-life situations
Importance
This step ensures that learning is functional and permanent.
Role of Teacher in Herbartian Lesson Planning
Planner and organizer
Knowledge provider
Classroom controller
Evaluator of learning
The teacher dominates the teaching-learning process in this model.
Role of Learner in Herbartian Approach
Passive listener
Receiver of knowledge
Responds to teacher’s questions
Learners have limited scope for creativity and independent thinking.
Merits of Herbartian Approach
Systematic and well-organized lesson structure
Suitable for theoretical subjects
Easy to plan and implement
Useful for beginner teachers
Ensures logical presentation of content
Helpful in exam-oriented teaching
Limitations of Herbartian Approach
Teacher-centred approach
Neglects individual differences
Little scope for creativity and critical thinking
Learners remain passive
Not suitable for skill-based subjects
Ignores modern constructivist views of learning
Relevance of Herbartian Approach in Modern Education
Although modern pedagogy emphasizes learner-centred approaches, the Herbartian model is still relevant:
Useful for introductory lessons
Effective for conceptual clarity
Helpful in large classrooms
Still included in teacher education syllabi
Comparison with Modern Lesson Planning Models
| Basis | Herbartian Model | Modern Models |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Teacher-centred | Learner-centred |
| Focus | Knowledge | Skills & understanding |
| Method | Lecture & Q/A | Activity-based |
| Flexibility | Rigid | Flexible |
Conclusion
The Herbartian Approach Models of Lesson Planning represent a classical and systematic method of teaching that laid the foundation for modern lesson planning techniques. Despite its limitations, the approach remains significant in understanding the evolution of teaching methods and continues to be relevant in examination contexts.
For teachers and teacher-trainees, mastering the Herbartian lesson planning model helps in developing structured teaching skills, especially during the initial stages of professional growth.
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