For the
Waldorf student, music, dance, and theater, writing, literature, legends and
myths are not simply subjects to be read about, ingested and tested. They are
experienced. Through these experiences, Waldorf students cultivate a lifelong
love of learning as well as the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual
capacities to be individuals certain of their paths and to be of service to the
world.
Developed by Rudolf Steiner in 1919, Waldorf Education is
based on an understanding of human development that addresses the needs of the
growing child. Waldorf teachers strive to transform education into an art that
educates the whole child—the heart and the hands, as well as the head.
When
you enter a Waldorf school, the first thing you may notice is the care given to
the building. The walls are usually painted in lively colors and are adorned
with student artwork. Evidence of student activity is everywhere to be found
and every desk holds a uniquely created main lesson book.
Another
first impression may be the enthusiasm and commitment of the teachers you meet.
These teachers are interested in the students as individuals. They are
interested in the questions:
How do
we establish within each child his or her own high level of academic
excellence?
How do
we call forth enthusiasm for learning and work, a healthy self-awareness,
interest and concern for fellow human beings, and a respect for the world?
How can
we help pupils find meaning in their lives?
Teachers in Waldorf schools are dedicated to generating an inner
enthusiasm for learning within every child. They achieve this in a variety of
ways. Even seemingly dry and academic subjects are presented in a pictorial and
dynamic manner. This eliminates the need for competitive testing, academic
placement, and behavioristic rewards to motivate learning. It allows motivation
to arise from within and helps engender the capacity for joyful lifelong
learning.
The Waldorf curriculum is broad and comprehensive, structured to respond
to the three developmental phases of childhood: from birth to approximately 6
or 7 years, from 7 to 14 years and from 14 to 18 years. Rudolf Steiner stressed
to teachers that the best way to provide meaningful support for the child is to
comprehend these phases fully and to bring "age appropriate" content
to the children that nourishes healthy growth.
Information
from AWSNA
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