top of page

Holistic Education and the Arts

Holistic Learning is balance, connection and reflection. 

 -

Nel Noddings

 
Holistic education is the teaching of the whole child. Jack Miller suggests that the whole person is the mind, body and soul. He continues to say that we, the teachers, should teach with wisdom and compassion. Teachers who teach holistically, create connections and show knowledge in a variety of subjects to make natural connections between experiences and their environment. Without this, teaching can often me dysfunctional and unnatural. 
 
This teaching style stems from the Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia styles of the early 20th century. 
 
The three terms that stand out a lot in the literature are: inclusion, balance and connection. Below these terms are described in more detail. I reference these terms as the thread that weaves the ideas behind this site. I share some of the websites that I have used and explored to incorporate art and technology in my classes. 
 
Inclusion: Inclusion is teaching through a range of strategies. These can include teacher-led lectures and teaching as well as student inquiry to create meaning and beyond. This site highlights some sites that can be used through teacher modeling and student-led approaches.  
 
Balance: Teaching needs balance. Balance between approaches, styles and strategies. Miller suggests a Yin/Yang approach. Meaning a balance between rational thinking and intuative authentic process. One part of this site highlights the importance of balancing different approaches in the art room. I suggest balancing technology with more kinesthetic options. 
 
Connection: Miller also outlines six types of connections: subject, earth, community, thinking, body-mind and soul. For the sake of this site, I am looking at the subject connection that creates multi-disciplinary connections while also exploring thinking and community. Thinking approaches different parts of the brain and community makes connections within the classroom. Thinking is very important while exploring creativity - using a variety of creative approaches and problem-solving.
 
 
 
 
 
For more information about Miller's views on holistic education, his books are listed on the reference page. 
 
 
bottom of page