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What is a Laboratory School?

A laboratory school, often called a lab school, is an educational institution affiliated with a college or university—typically one with a strong department or faculty of education. 

Lab schools serve as living laboratories where educators, researchers, and students collaborate to test and refine new approaches to teaching and learning. They bridge theory and practice, allowing innovative ideas from university researchers to be implemented and observed in real classrooms. They are centers of experimentation, collaboration, and continual improvement in education.

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The Origins of Laboratory Schools

The concept of the laboratory school dates back to 1896, when John Dewey, the renowned philosopher and education reformer, founded the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. Dewey—known as the father of the Progressive Education Movement—believed that learning should be active, child-centered, and experiential rather than based on rote memorization.

His ideas fundamentally reshaped how educators approached teaching and curriculum development by emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. Many lab schools today continue to embody these core tenets of progressive education. 

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Key Elements of a Laboratory School

Laboratory schools are intentionally designed to explore diverse approaches to educating students and equipping them for success in an ever-changing society. 

While the appearance and methods of lab schools in the 21st century have evolved since Dewey’s time, most continue to share several key elements that define their mission and practice.

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The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools: A Model for Progressive Education

Founded in 1896, the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools have long been recognized as pioneers in student-centered, experiential learning. Ranked among the top K–12 private schools in Illinois, Lab provides an environment where children don't just learn, they actively discover. 

An active member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools continue to advance Dewey’s unique educational philosophy by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

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Learn more about the nation’s first and finest laboratory school

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of education—connecting theory, practice, and innovation to better serve students and teachers alike. 

Lab schools serve as living laboratories where educators, researchers, and students collaborate to test and refine new approaches to teaching and learning. They bridge theory and practice, allowing innovative ideas from university researchers to be implemented and observed in real classrooms. They are centers of experimentation, collaboration, and continual improvement in education.