In this short series of articles, I have summarised three points which I consider as the key elements for self-directed education. I have learnt them over my time at one of the best known examples of free schools in the world – Summerhill School (Suffolk, England), which celebrates 100th anniversary in 2021. This text is addressed to home-schooling parents but also to teachers who seek different ways of teaching. Hopefully, you will be able to contribute to the movement of parents and educators who see children as the central part of learning.
Continue reading “Self-directed learning: Trust in kids (Part 2)”Self-directed learning: Time for childhood (Part 1)
Many parents, who decided home-school their children, might do a research about teaching and try answer questions like: What to do? How to teach kids? I even believe that a few teachers, who are not satisfied with their teaching strategies or results, would like to find inspiration somewhere else and change their approach. A years ago, I heard about something called ‘self-directed education’ and read books like Summerhill School or Assessment 3.0 or lately Disobedient Teaching. Since then, I have been trying to implement described principles into my own teaching practise. I am certain that it is relevant philosophy and in most cases the best approach to schooling. It has the potential to unlock or support the human genuine interest in learning and prepare kids for their future what ever it might be. Most students will turn to confident people who can communicate and treat others with care and respect. To young people who will have better chance to find happiness in their lives.
Continue reading “Self-directed learning: Time for childhood (Part 1)”