Pedagogy – from common knowledge towards the synergy of experience, reflection and scientific knowledge

The article presents a history of pedagogy initially as the area of philosophical reflection, then emerging more clearly as a separate branch of knowledge, and eventually an independent discipline embracing extensive and diverse scope of problems. The leading themes are the changes in the understanding of pedagogy and the ways cultivated in it. The problems of modern pedagogy and the condition of Polish pedagogical environments have been outlined. Also, the emphasis is laid on social obligation of pedagogical discipline and its links with educational practice.