Philosophical Foundations:
Socratic Teaching at Luna Moth
Children and young adults should not be passive recipients of information; they must become active participants in their educational journey. Socratic pedagogy - named after the great philosopher - is not about delivering knowledge in a top-down manner. Instead, it is an interactive, dialogic approach that encourages students to question, explore, and ultimately discover truths for themselves.
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"Tell me and I forget,
teach me and I remember,
involve me and I learn."
​​Socratic pedagogy is about cultivating an environment where dialogue flourishes, where every voice is heard, and where learning is a shared journey of discovery. This philosophy permeates everything we do, ensuring that education is not just informative, but transformative...
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This approach aligns perfectly with the Steiner-Waldorf principles that underpin our programs at Luna Moth. It nurtures curiosity, and empowers students to become independent thinkers. By encouraging self-reflection, Socratic pedagogy helps them develop not just intellectually, but also morally and emotionally. It is incredibly rewarding to watch a child’s eyes light up with realization as they connect the dots themselves, guided by their own questioning spirit!
Elenchus (refutation): Through a series of probing questions, the teacher helps students identify contradictions or weaknesses in their arguments, leading to a deeper understanding or reevaluation of their views.
Maieutics (midwifery): This method involves guiding students to bring forth knowledge and insights they already possess, much like a midwife helps deliver a baby. The teacher helps the student “give birth” to ideas through reflective dialogue.
A labyrinth is one of the oldest patterns in the history of human civilization. It is also a unique practice. When done with children, it fosters concentration, serenity, and understanding.
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You don't lose yourself in a labyrinth. In a labyrinth, you find yourself, words by Hermann Kern, a scholar who extensively studied labyrinths and their symbolism.
Art and Craft of Labyrinth, SAOG
Emerson College, May 2023
The Unity of Art and Science in Ancient Greece
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Ancient Greeks viewed art and science as two sides of the same coin. In the classical education system, disciplines like mathematics, music, astronomy, and philosophy were intertwined. The Greeks believed that understanding the world required not only logical analysis but also an appreciation of the aesthetic harmony of nature.
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For example, the Pythagoreans—followers of the philosopher Pythagoras—saw a deep connection between mathematics and music. They believed that numerical ratios governed not only the harmony of musical notes but also the structure of the universe.
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As Plato and Aristotle sought to cultivate well-rounded individuals who could think critically, reason logically, and appreciate beauty, believing that education should embrace the wholeness of human experience. In Plato's Academy students would learn to observe nature with both scientific precision and artistic sensitivity, recognizing that the natural world is both rational and beautiful.