Prior to reading this section, I would have grouped system and method together. I would have assumed that they were both structures which outlined the journey from point a to point b. That an educational system would be the same as an educational method.
However, their are some fine but vital differences between the two. A system is much more precise. A system says that if you do X, Y will follow. It is a program with definable results and is ideal for careers and specialized trades.
A method, on the other hand, indicates a way of life. A method focuses on the goal less than the process. If the goal is an educated human being, a method employs every moment in the child’s existence to reach that end. It permeates every part of life.
A system is easier than a method. In a system, definable results will come through following rules. If humans were machines, systems would get the job done. But to educate a self-acting, thinking, individual human being, a method must be used, a method that touches on every emotional, physical, and mental aspect of that human being.
A method of education requires constant watchfulness. It requires complete immersion in the act of education, and willingness to embrace learning wherever it may be found.
While this full bodied education sounds almost super human, there are a few over-arching principles, which if followed, provide clarity in the journey.
Yes… a way of life, embracing learning where ever it can be found… seizing all the teachable moments! So simple but so hard for some of us task oriented moms that get so caught up in the “tasks” that we easily miss the teachable moments!