Holistic Learning
Holistic learning is defined by Ron Miller as “a philosophy of education based on the premise that each person finds identity, meaning, and purpose in life through connections to the community, to the natural world, and to humanitarian values such as compassion and peace. Holistic learning aims to call forth from people an intrinsic reverence for life and a passionate love of learning.”
Holistic learning is broad, deep, and individualized. This form of learning does not focus only on academic goals, but rather a multifaceted state of awareness and knowledge that includes emotional, physiological, and interpersonal understanding. The key teaching strategies of holistic learning are connections between subjects, connections to real-world experiences, connections to self, flexible pacing, individualization, interdependence, and independence.
Holistic learning and natural learning are components in many progressive education movements including Montessori, Waldorf, Unschooling, Home Schooling, Nature-based Schooling, and Free/Democratic Schooling.
Holistic learning inspiration and resources:
Books
Websites
Videos
Public Schools
Private Schools
Free / Democratic and Unschooling
Montessori
Nature / Farm Schools
Educational Toys and Games