Holt's Theories in the 1970s Ironically Become Predictions for the Next Century

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8

Educational Theories; Recognition (Achievement); Reputation; Public Education; Classroom Environment; Observation; Creativity; Learning Theories; Prediction; Teacher Attitudes; Teacher Expectations of Students; Teacher Student Relationship; Discovery Learning; Student Centered Curriculum

John Holt was a revolutionary educational, published theorist of the 1970s and dared to report candidly his observations of public school classrooms. He found classrooms far too rigid, impersonal, and teacher-controlled. Children's thinking did not reach higher levels of critical thinking. Curiosity and creativity was stifled and stamped out. He believed that teachers' lessons considered little to no input from the students. He advocated that students should have more ownership in learning. Students of that decade primarily processed information only on the knowledge level. Students were discouraged from asking questions. Holt believed that children were born naturally curious and needed to experiment with their world around them. He advocated a more comprehensive hands-on approach where children have the opportunity to learn what they crave to learn. Holt died in 1985 and unfortunately did not come to realize that the ideas he promoted became essentially predictions for the future. Many of Holt's concepts are now being enthusiastically embraced by teachers of the 21st century. Holt was a forerunner of students learning in a more engaged and natural ways where students have more control over their learning and how they learn.

As Provided

2011

ED518082