The education system, like life, is permanently under construction. As they say, science is never settled. If there’s one great truth any parent can attest to, it’s that the education of young minds certainly counts as a science.
More children have access to education now, than ever in history, yet, there doesn’t seem to be a correlating level of success in adults that enter the working world.
It’s not simply down to schooling. The whole world is changing rapidly, education battles to adapt to the requirements of the fast-expanding modern world.
Thanks to a well-planned abandon of the status quo in the education system, some schools are quietly revolutionising the way in which children are educated. It’s not only equipping students for a happy and productive adult life, but it’s also benefitting our entire socio-economic system.
Finland is pioneering success in the education systems. They’ve employed a relaxed stance which has had a surprisingly beneficial impact.
Finland encourages more play and more free time. Studies have revealed that play time is a vital learning opportunity for children, especially those in preprimary and primary education phases. Beyond the methodical repetition of information given, playtime allows children to explore their world. They immerse themselves in their surroundings. Their brains, through discovery, build new neural pathways.
While playing, they practice social skills. They roleplay what they understand of social dynamics. When it comes to classroom time, their brains are readier to absorb new information, utilising those newly formed neural pathways.
Based on a curriculum created by a man named Rudolph Steiner, the Waldorf education abandons all need to conform to the status quo. The curriculum is delivered in a holistic manner.
Blocks of three consecutive weeks are dedicated to one subject for the first two hours of the day. This subject, whether it be maths, English, or history (according to a quarterly schedule) is investigated thoroughly. Children are encouraged to question the topic, hold discussions, and practice the subjects at great length.
At the end of the three-week block, students turn over a project book which displays their understanding of the subject. Theoretical writing alongside illustrations and exercises prove the student has mastered the quarter’s subject matter. This project book is done in their own time, teaching them from a very young age to work independently and adhere to deadlines. For the remainder of the day, maths, science, and every other lesson are done as usual.
Children who leave the Waldorf system as adults have developed their understanding of each subject at far greater length. They are capable of reasoning and strategising exceptionally well. If you want to learn more about Steiner Education in Australia.
A positive impact doesn’t have to come from an entire schooling system. Change can start with one school. One school can take the initiative to involve businesses from the outside and offer programs that aren’t considered part of the necessary schooling curriculum. Programs designed to prepare children for actual careers.
One such school steadily making an enormous impact is Hillcrest Christian School, based in Queensland Australia. They started introducing innovative learning programs, creative classroom design, and digital. You can learn more here.
We are seeing the value in bridging the gap between schools and business. As businesses get involved in education, we start to see more work-ready progress being made at the foundation level. Nvoke is proud to be part of the revolution that will steer the education system towards empowering students. Get involved, or learn more by following Nvoke social media:
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