Educational Method
At Cedarwood, we use a purposeful and comprehensive approach to education that encompasses both the individual and interpersonal growth of each child. This approach is created through the flexible, fluid combination of traditional and progressive educational methods based on the need, abilities, and interests of each individual child. We combine group lessons and focused individual tutoring to build knowledge and skills, which are further enriched and reinforced through application in projects, experiential learning, and unstructured play.
The educational method we have developed is deeply informed by Progressive and Humanistic educational approaches, and enhanced by an outdoor, nature-based environment. Our students engage in both short and long-term collaborative projects and experiments, as well as individual work. In addition, regular field trips and community activities expose students to settings other than the outdoor classroom.
Instruction in math, language arts, science, and social studies has three main components:
Based on Real Life Experiences:
This allows children to see the relevance of academic concepts and their usefulness in day-to-day life. For example, purchasing individual nature kits at Reedy Creek Park using their own coins. This experience allows each child to work with a number of mathematical concepts including counting in 5’s, 10’s, calculating percentages (to account for tax), finding courage to make their own purchase, and understanding the concept of monetary exchange.
Interdisciplinary / Cross-Curricular:
Integration of information between different academic subjects allows children to connect and apply new knowledge to future learning and daily experience. For example, creating a family tree as a part of their history project enables children to conceptualize the idea of time (years, centuries, etc) and geography in relation to their families, and introduces them to roman numerals.
Individual Practice / Tutoring:
Consistent individual practice of academic concepts with tutoring guidance allows children to master academic concepts and develop intellectual skills. This part of the curriculum is tailored to each child’s ability and needs. Children progress at their own pace, at a minimum staying at his or her appropriate grade level according to the traditional school system.
Our methods encourage students to be:
- Independent, active learners
- Critical thinking problem-solvers
- Creators and innovators
- Socially responsible community members
- Collaborative team members
- Competent and self-affirming people