Method
"Good teaching is mostly made up of learning, rather than teaching itself."
– Franz E. Weinert
How do children learn at School of Tomorrow?
The learning method of the SOT is goal-oriented and structured, yet individual and flexible. The child is always at the center. There are many different ways to develop and acquire knowledge and skills. This path necessarily varies from child to child. The foundation is built on trust and relies on a deep understanding of the individual and the development of direct relationship. Rather than a mere acquisition of knowledge, this method focuses on learning how to learn, by fostering the child's innate curiosity and joy of learning
Individualized - Project-Based - Independent - Fun
Teaching is project-based and therefore interdisciplinary; not strictly divided into subjects.
The absence of fixed lessons makes it possible to truly focus and stay in the flow, or to take breaks if necessary.
The individual and "fluid" timetable allows for creativity and intrinsic interest.
Individualized learning empowers children to find their very own adequate and ideal path.
Personal interests are not a nuisance, but rather a cornerstone of each child's individual curriculum.
Rather than simply "covering" a topic, we motivate children to "uncover" (actively explore through questions and experiments) and "discover" (from their own perspective, directly in the real world).
Lessons don't feel like traditional school or duty, but more like play, entertainment and social exchange.
Trust as a foundation, measure what's useful, encourage when desired, motivate where necessary.
SOT does not grade. Especially at a young age, grading is not beneficial, in some cases even harmful. Despite common belief, lack of grading does NOT result in a lack of awareness or ability of performance judgement, quite the opposite! Techniques such as weekly plans, goal setting and self-assessment prove just as important as fostering perseverance, resilience, determination, courage and more. The development of a healthy "frame of reference" is essential; and for this, factors such as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation play a key role. Especially, if children should learn to be intrinsically motivated, without depending on external praise or blame.
SOT does not give homework. Family time is just as important as school time. Time spent with family and friends is "sacred" and should not be limited or even replaced by forced homework. If a child wishes to continue working on a project at home, or even involve parents, friends or siblings, this is always welcomed. However, it should remain the child's free choice. Learning does not happen by actively memorizing, or forcing the acquisition of knowledge. Exchange with other people, interaction, questioning and play contribute just as much to a child's education.
SOT does not have exams – at least not the type of exams we are used to. This does not mean that there is no performance tracking. It is much more about recognizing progress - in different areas - instead of asking for and assessing specific knowledge at a predefined point in time. We measure development and progress in areas where it is appropriate and useful, together with the child. The aim is to encourage self-responsibility as well as to develop self-confidence. Intrinsic motivation and continuous inspiration are more important for a child's development than outside assessment or highlighting weaknesses.
The School of Tomorrow is not a completely liberal school where the child is always allowed to do whatever he or she feels like. Healthy pressure can be quite positive. At SOT there are clear structures and rules as well as projects and activities that make the learning process interesting, fun and productive. The fun and joy of learning should be maintained throughout life and this is not achieved through pressure. In the right setting, the child will build up a healthy pressure to perform, which we encourage. Children by nature want to grow, learn and progress. Our structure enables the full development of this potential!