THE CHILD FRIENDLY SCHOOL: AN IDEA VERSUS REALITY

Journal Title: Problems of Education in the 21st Century - Year 2011, Vol 29, Issue 5

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to question the concept of a ‘child friendly’ school, which sounds democratic, but is an unclear term. The problem is that with 45-minute lessons and 30 pupils in the classroom (as is often the case in Estonian schools), it is not possible to focus on each child. In 2005, a new basic school was opened in the countryside in the middle of Estonia – for only 24 students (some of them were children with learning and/or behavioural difficulties). The method of research was educational ethnography. Result: the strict rules sometimes seem bad, but life is safer with them. It was interesting to recognize the importance of routines from ordinary (‘old fashion’) schools. Children with learning and/or behavioural difficulties need even more discipline than others, because this can be one part of the therapy. Education for sustainable development must not always be ‘child friendly’.

Authors and Affiliations

Mare Leino

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP34949
  • DOI -
  • Views 322
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How To Cite

Mare Leino (2011). THE CHILD FRIENDLY SCHOOL: AN IDEA VERSUS REALITY. Problems of Education in the 21st Century, 29(5), -. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-34949