Oklahoma State Assessment Test (OSAT) Early Childhood Education Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT one of the primary interests of children according to John Dewey?

1. Desire to investigate and discover

2. Need for dominance in social hierarchies

3. Joy in construction

4. Artistic expression

The correct answer is: Need for dominance in social hierarchies

The primary interests of children, as articulated by John Dewey, focus on their natural curiosities and needs for engagement with the world around them. Dewey emphasized the importance of active involvement in learning, highlighting interests such as the desire to investigate and discover, joy in construction, and artistic expression. These interests align with an educational philosophy that supports experiential learning and creativity. The need for dominance in social hierarchies does not typically fall under Dewey's framework regarding children's intrinsic interests in learning. While children are naturally social beings and may engage in behaviors related to social structures, dominating or seeking power over peers is not considered a foundational or supportive interest in the learning process according to Dewey. His work aligns more with the exploration of ideas and collaborative experiences rather than competitive behaviors focused on social ranking.