Psychological Foundations of Education in Islamic and Western Perspectives: A Comparative Study through the Approaches of Abu Hamid al-Ghazali and John Dewey

Abstract

This research aims to identify the psychological foundations of education, their importance in education in general, and the foundations of education in particular, and to understand the different concepts surrounding them. Through an in-depth study, the research seeks to reveal the nature, real impact, and role of these foundations in expanding the young learners’ understanding. Moreover, it aims to determine their status and the importance of their application in the contemporary educational contexts, both Western and Islamic. The research intends to differentiate between the two perspectives and examine what each approach offers in the field of education. It explores which approach has a stronger connection to the learner's life according to the divine nature upon which Allah created humanity. The research endeavors to identify the real practical difference between the two approaches, a task that is not easily accomplished. It aims to provide a clear and unbiased perspective, avoiding any bias towards either approach. Instead, it presents scientific research based on some possible sources and references. This allows interested researchers to find concise scientific sources that meet their needs and are free from ambiguity and obscurity. The researcher relied on some of the works presented by the Arab philosopher Abu Hamid al-Ghazali and the Western philosopher John Dewey, along with some references that could be referred to for further clarification (comparison and analysis). The findings are presented sequentially throughout the research.