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The term ‘holistic’ refers to the idea of ‘whole’ and ‘holistic approach’ in teaching considers the ‘whole being’ of a learner, not only his/her cognitive ability. This concept resonates with the theory of Humanism (Roger, 1951) and learners’ emotional or physical needs are taken into account by the educators. Besides that, learners are encouraged to exploit their ability in personal development. Also, teaching goes beyond the classroom, and this approach introduces life-long learning through self-intervention to the learner. “A program of holistic education aims to encompass all aspects of personal learning and growth and emphasizes the development of active relationships at all levels” (Hare, 2010).
From another perspective, ‘A holistic way of thinking seeks to encompass and integrate multiple layers of meaning and experience rather than defining human possibilities narrowly’ (Miller, 2000). Learners are not treated as organisms of producing scores or gaining employability by the teachers. Instead, their unique intelligence and potential cared and reared in every possible way. Thus it confirms inclusion and accepts diversity. Learners understand the world as a whole universe, instead of near surroundings only.
Besides that holistic education entails the philosophy of combining real-life experiences, contemporary incidents, nature, dramatic arts, well-being and all other live sources of learning with textbooks for education. And, it aims at eliciting learners’ reflections and questions to ensure the transformation of knowledge. That can transform a child into a whole human being. To sum up, this approach incorporates Core academics, Emotional developments, Critical thinking Skills, Conflict Resolution Skills, Character Formation, Healthy Social Skills, Manners, Hands on Lessons etc. The holistic approach involves the process of realization, harmony, innovation, happiness, self-improvement, individual satisfaction, self-fulfillment, share and cooperation. “Essentially, the goal of education has shifted from knowledge acquisition to learner expertise. As we discuss below, becoming an expert learner is a process, not a fixed goal" (Meyer, Rose, & Gordon, 2014).
References:
Hare, J. (2010). Holistic education: An interpretation for teachers in the IB programmes. IB Position Paper, International Baccalaureate Organization.
McLeod, S. A. (2014). Carl Rogers. Retrieved from:www.simplypsychology.org/carl-rogers.html . Retrieved: 05.07.2018
Meyer, A., Rose, D.H., & Gordon, D. (2014). Universal design for learning: Theory and Practice. Wakefield, MA: CAST Professional Publishing.
Miller, R. (2000). ‘A brief introduction to holistic education’, the encyclopaedia of informal education.[ http://infed.org/mobi/a-brief-introduction-to-holistic-education/ . Retrieved: 05.07.2018
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