There are so many different outstanding education organizations that strive to offer developmentally appropriate, experiential, and academically-rigorous approaches to education. But can all of them effectively integrate arts in all academic disciplines for children from preschool through twelfth grade in a way that enhances and enriches learning while also deepening their sense of self-awareness on a full spectrum level - one that encompasses mind, body, spirit, environment and more? Let’s learn a little more about a school system that was built on the notion of anthroposophy.
You may or may not have already heard about Steiner Education (also referred to as the Waldorf Education system), the learning process is essentially threefold, engaging head, heart, and hands—or thinking, feeling, and doing. This is the basis out of which Waldorf teachers work to nurture and engage each child through a curriculum and methodology that integrates academics, arts, and practical skills.
Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education, is based on the esoteric educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposophy. Its pedagogy strives to develop pupils' intellectual, artistic, and practical skills in an integrated and holistic manner. The cultivation of pupils' imagination and creativity in ways that serve their developmental needs is a strong focus. It is also worth noting that anthroposophy regards that there is an objective spiritual domain and we have the potential to interact with it and through it in more substantial and impactful as well as meaningful ways.
Waldorf Schools Around the World
About the Author: Harmony Plus cultural research expert Andy Bauer, Ph.D. has more than 10 years of experience doing comparative studies about Chinese and American culture and has been invited as a cultural advisor in many contexts.
ABOUT THIS SERIES The Harmony Plus “Let's Upgrade Education Perspectives Series” is dedicated to thinking about which representative curriculums, school designs, and teaching practitioners should be referred to push education forward.