How holistic education future-proofs youth for the future
October 2024: Teachers are the key to the disruptive transformation the education world needs. But have our education systems adapted enough to support them in this modern world, where students are often as tech savvy as teachers? With the celebration of World Teachers’ Day in October, let’s reflect on how teachers are transforming education and the challenges that lie ahead.
No technology, not even the most sophisticated artificial intelligence, can replace the work of a teacher and the magic they perform in the classroom: the deep knowledge of what a student is like and the special connection between student and teacher cannot be developed by machines; nor can algorithms inspire their students, spark their curiosity, or adapt appropriately to the changing circumstances of a class (Cooper, 2017)[1].
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Teachers have always been the driving force of education systems. Without them, it’s impossible to provide quality, inclusive and equitable education to all students. More than ever we need teachers who are motivated and able to motivate, who are able to spark their students’ love of learning with the support of technology; teachers who encourage creativity, critical thinking, teamwork, empathy and resilience, and who are able to adapt quickly to a rapidly changing context.
As more and more research demonstrates the importance of social-emotional learning and whole child development, schools and their teachers are beginning to take a holistic approach to education. Holistic education, as practised by ACUDEO Colleges, is a comprehensive approach to teaching that addresses the emotional, social, ethical, and academic needs of students in an integrated manner. This educational philosophy emphasises the development of the whole child, ensuring that students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
It focuses on developing each student on every possible front within the school environment, from developing their creative and artistic ability, physical ability on the sports field, intellectual through class work and extension activities, social to emotional, providing students with support and development opportunities[2].
“In celebration of World Teachers’ Day this month, I am proud of the dedication and commitment to excellence displayed by our teachers in developing our students on every level, from the sports field to the classroom and beyond,” remarks May Alli, Dean of Teaching and Learning at ACUDEO Colleges.
This type of education provides students with the tools they need to manage stress, develop positive relationships, and take care of their physical health. As a result, these students are more likely to succeed in school and in life.
“One of my favourite ever lessons was the one where I spent the lesson simply allowing my students to tell each other how they were feeling that day. This set the tone for my entire day and the students really became close after,” shares Michael Dos Santos, Academic Coordinator – High School, for ACUDEO College.
Holistic education has many benefits for both teachers and students alike. By catering to individual learning styles, it fosters a supportive environment, which enhances academic performance across diverse student backgrounds. Engaging students in real-world problem-solving projects cultivates critical-thinking skills essential for their future careers.
The holistic approach mitigates the psychological impacts of adverse circumstances like poverty or violence on academic success. By prioritising social and emotional learning alongside academics, students develop self-awareness and confidence, leading to a greater sense of social responsibility.
“I remember a student who was very disruptive in class, always getting up and wandering around. So, one of our teachers began to give him physical work to do in between activities and the change was remarkable! He became their best student almost overnight,” shares Dos Santos.
Holistic education often involves collaboration with community members, enhancing students’ understanding of their roles within society and encouraging active participation in their learning. Students learn essential life skills such as effective communication, collaboration, and creativity, preparing them for the complexities of modern society.
This approach to education is beneficial for students and teachers because it can help them to better understand and manage their own health, as well as the health of others. It encourages students to develop healthy habits, coping skills as well as how to manage stress and anxiety. Students develop and use their own emotional toolkit in the classroom, sports field and cultural space, where they can collectively share and discuss their own emotional state, cultivating their emotional awareness.
Assessing the success of holistic approaches is generally undertaken in the sense of assessing skills and competencies. This model not only enhances academic achievement but also prioritises emotional well-being and personal development, preparing students for success in both their academic pursuits and life beyond school.
“We have found that success is accompanied by changes in student relations, a greater camaraderie and a real sense of belonging among our learners,” says Adilla Okkers, Academic Coordinator – Primary School, for ACUDEO College. “We develop natural communities of learning over time and the academic results produced improve as we see our learners become more engaged as a whole,” adds Okkers.
“Our exceptional men and women who take up the call to the classroom must be commended for their daily sacrifice and drive. So, I wish all of my ACUDEO teachers and all teachers in general, a very happy and blessed teachers’ day and would like to thank them for using their exceptional skills to improve the lives of our students,” adds Alli.