Monday, May 16, 2011

Taller Colibri Philosophy

The parents and teacher at Taller Colibri have collaborated on creating this statement of our philosophy and intent at the school. We are just about to conclude a successful first year.

On Curriculum:
--A child-centered curriculum promotes motivation and self-determined challenges.
--A project-based curriculum helps to ensure a multimodal approach, addressing diverse learning styles.
--Find the teachable moments instead of pushing a prefabbed agenda - in each situation and with individual children
--Contact with Oaxaca's culture, natural attractions, language, traditions and historic places is an integral part of the school's identity.
--Real learning emerges comes from the freedom to explore (especially within the natural world, or with the help of interesting resources and materials.)

On structure:
--A multiage classroom promotes deeper learning and more open peer relationships.
--The day follows a rhythm that reflects the needs of the students, moving between outdoor, indoor, whole group and individual activities.
--The school is cooperative. Members make decisions together and share work and responsibilities.

Educational philosophy:
--Traditional academic knowledge is no more valuable than other types of knowledge and ways of interacting with the world
--ACTIVE learning and CURIOSITY about the world are the most important things to foster and help inspire.
--Learning is fun. We all learn from each other (teachers are students, students are teachers).
--The best way to 'teach' children to care for the natural environment is to give them time and space to enjoy it - children naturally love the world
--Trust the growing process of each child - do not push children to achieve outward measurements of success
--Let kids be kids
--Model kindness
--Learning can be messy

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