Educational paradigms

Holistic - Flexible - Social - Theory vs. practice

These days, the need for a thorough educational reform can be heard in pedagogical circles around the world. Learning should be more flexible, more focused on experience, creativity should be given more importance, new technology should be incorporated, the school must adapt to the ever present internet...

Firstly, education must become more flexible. People talk about individual learning paths, talent-driven approach, organic learning. In the past, education was linear, almost without any effort for individualisation. Learners with additional needs got left behind and often ended up in the alternative (special) education system. Modern education pradagms state that all pupils should be given all the chances and guidance necessary. For example, we speak of inclusion when children with certain disabilities are taken to "regular" education. Thus, education becomes more organic, all pupils start at their own specific knowledge level and follow a path that is outlined just for them. This road may change over time because the proposed development paths, projects or programs are not being followed rigidly and at all cost.

Learning also becomes more holistic. Sheer knowledge is no longer the main desired outcome of a learning path: social, cultural, and scientific skills become ever more valued... The focus is no longer (only) on teaching, but on learning as well. Rich learning environments are available, both digitally and in real life. Practice should enable students to gain more applied knowledge and practical skills, which can be honed later in life.

In addition, learning is becoming social. In 19th and 20th Century schools, learners were seated in the classroom. The teacher stood at the front of the classroom and delivered a lesson. Lately, learning is seen more as a social interaction between learners of all ages and their teachers (or coaches). We work in groups and sometimes individually. Group discussions take place, we work on expression. We learn not only from the teacher but also from each other. Peerlearning and network learning are two concepts that are often mentioned in this context.

Finally, it is very important to note that there is a big difference between a nice educational theory and the every-day practice. Studies show there is little attention for additional training and professional development for teachers, schools often lack the vision or means to change, as do teachers. Not all the concepts discussed above will be omnipresent in 10 years' time. But perhaps a foundation will be laid by then!

Source: New World of Learning (VANERUM Group).