Make Way for the Progressive Method of Learning

Traditional schools are very common in our setting. But because kids nowadays are becoming smarter and more active owing to the rapid changes in their environment, their needs, therefore, are increasing. Some fear that the traditional approach cannot amply respond anymore to these needs to the detriment of their child’s development.

I can say that I, too, had the same fear at that time I was looking for a school for my 4-year old daughter until I discovered the growth of progressive schools applying the so-called “progressive” approach. At first, I had no idea how progressive approach works, but I discovered that this method, which fits perfectly for children who are about to take the first level, focuses on the uniqueness of each child. Teachers respect each child’s individuality and let each student discover new things not only from books but also through investigation and application. Like my daughter who is very inquisitive and adventurous, she learns best when she gets hands-on to a particular subject matter.

I am amazed with how she, on her own, identifies her strengths and weaknesses and what she does to enrich and improve them. Discipline wise, teachers are into positive enforcement. Words such as “No” and “Don’t” are strongly discouraged. Positive enforcement, as part of the progressive approach works well for children who are curious and at times, stubborn. Traditional approach has its own advantages, but it is not necessarily effective to all children who have different levels of comprehension and understanding.

For one thing, it may fail a student who is having a hard time living up to the expectations of his teacher. Sending my daughter to a progressive school was the best decision I have done for her. With the progressive approach, I am confident that my child learns through experience with independence and all other areas of her being are developed through ways acceptable to her identity.