From Quaker to Maori and Buddhist schools, a new book is exploring the globe through alternative educations.
Edited by Professor Philip Woods and Dr Glenys Woods, who both work at the University of Gloucestershire’s Education Department, it is a unique collection of leading examples of education grounded in alternative philosophies and cultures.
Aimed at education practitioners, leaders and policy makers in all types of educational settings, Alternative Education for the 21st Century: Philosophy, Approaches, Vision, is to be published shortly by Palgrave in the UK, following its publication in the US.
The book gives unparalleled insight into a range of initiatives to create educational environments that nurture young people’s fullest humanity and contribute to a more democratic and socially just world. Leading international researchers examine democratic schools, Quaker, Buddhist, Islamic, Montessori and Steiner/Waldorf schools, Maori and First Nations education in Canada, and Palestinian Jewish schools in Israel.
In their conclusion as editors, Philip and Glenys Woods identify themes across these alternatives. They conclude that schools for the 21st century need:
- a coherent philosophy that signals commitment to holistic development, social justice and developing capacities necessary for active democracy;
- an integrated approach to curriculum and pedagogy, which helps young people achieve the freedom to choose and behave as moral agents and develop their multi-dimensional potentialities;
- encouragement of ‘mindful practice’, which involves a sense of spiritual connectedness and social action to create a more just, fair and peaceful society.
Prof Woods said: “The book is a resource to help educators think creatively about education. Its publication comes at a time when the need to find new ways to nurture spiritual and holistic growth and democratic citizenship has never been greater.”
19th February 2009