Mixing Forest Schooling & Self-Directed Learning: A Conversation with Justine Wilson of Curious & Kind Education
Apr 4, 2024
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Justine Wilson from Curious and Kind Education discusses self-directed learning and Agile Learning Communities, sharing insights on transitioning from planning to execution and launching a nature play program. She also talks about building connections for rapid growth, future plans for programs, and envisioning the future of education through collaborative networks.
Justine Wilson emphasizes student-driven learning through hands-on activities aligned with interests.
Curious & Kind Education blends forest school principles with agile learning to nurture curiosity and independence.
Deep dives
Justine Wilson's Journey into Education and Self-Directed Learning
Justine Wilson's path into education began informally as an outdoor science educator, fostering her love for student-driven learning. Transitioning into teaching with a progressive education approach, she emphasized hands-on, engaging activities aligned with student interests. Wilson's introduction to alternative education concepts at Antioch University planted the seeds for her shift towards self-directed and agile learning models, ultimately leading to the creation of Curious and Kind Education.
The Agile Learning Communities Model and Curious and Kind Programs
Curious and Kind Education is part of the Agile Learning Community Network, promoting self-directed learning in a community setting. The programs at Curious and Kind blend forest school principles with agile learning, providing immersive experiences for children to explore, problem solve, and create. With offerings like the Stay and Play for younger kids and the Forest School Agile Learning for older children, the focus remains on nurturing curiosity and independence while fostering a sense of community among learners.
Future Outlook for Curious and Kind Education and the Impact on Education Landscape
As Justine Wilson continues to expand Curious and Kind Education, plans for a teen program, a play school program, and partnerships with community organizations are on the horizon. Wilson's optimistic view of the education landscape sees a growing network of self-directed learning communities and micro schools making a positive impact. She envisions a future where diverse educational models like Curious and Kind influence traditional systems, providing more choices and opportunities for learners.
Justine Wilson is the founder of Curious and Kind Education. She has been an educator for 18 years working in a variety of roles including outdoor science educator, public school teacher, and university instructor doing teacher-training. She launched the nature-based Curious & Kind in 2023 as part of the Agile Learning Centers (ALC) Network that prioritizes self-directed education.
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