"The Great Debate" refers to a significant discussion in the early 20th century regarding the best approach to education in the United States. It primarily involved two opposing views: traditional education, which emphasized classical subjects and rote learning, and progressive education, which focused on experiential learning and the needs of the child. This debate shaped educational policies and practices, influencing how schools were structured and how teachers approached their lessons. Key figures in this discussion included John Dewey, a proponent of progressive education, and William Torrey Harris, who supported traditional methods. The outcomes of this debate continue to impact education today.