Dalton Plan . Theory and teaching of learning characterized by respect for the individuality of the student so that they can carry out their work with complete freedom and responsibility. It applies to children in second childhood and adolescents, who already know how to read, write and calculate.

Summary

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• 1 Origin
  • 1 Theoretical budgets
  • 2 Principles
  • 3 Organization
  • 4 Advantages
  • 5 Disadvantages
• 2 Sources

Origin

Designed by Helen Parkhurst, North American rural teacher, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Concerned about following an efficient system, she studies the work of María Montessori , whom she met on a study trip around Europe , and structures an educational plan focused on the individualization of teaching and the child’s personal activity; This was carried out starting in 1920 at the Secondary School in the city of Dalton , Massachusetts , United States .

Theoretical budgets

For the development of his Parkhurst Plan, he started from two strong theoretical assumptions:

• The learning process is different for each student in rhythm, depth and modality.
• Individualization refers exclusively to the working method, but not to the content, which is simply the official program.

Each child then becomes an agent of his own learning.

Beginning

1. The student needs freedom to function, therefore, the schoolmust provide it.
2. Freedom does not mean impunity for disorder, nor is it synonymouswith willful conduct; the student who does what he wants without reason to justify it, really is not free, he is subject to his whims.
3. The satisfactory development of the scholar requires that he release his surplus energyand that opportunities are offered to him, situations are offered to him, so that responsibility develops progressively in him, he knows his own capacities, he feels the desire to work with others in the achievement of a common goal, really gain positive experiences and learn to solve problems that correspond to your age, not to stages of your future life.

Organization

1. The subjectof the course is presented divided into ten units corresponding progressive ten months schooldays; each of them is subdivided into smaller units, corresponding to the week and each day; At the beginning of the month, the student agrees to work on each unit according to their rhythm, and cannot move on to the next unit without completing the previous one.
2. Teachers are job guides; There are no classes but laboratories run by specialists in the various subjects and where all the documentation for personal work is found.
3. There are no textbooks but rather brochures prepared as a researchindex , in which all work units are recorded with precise and detailed indications on exercises, bibliography, etc.
4. Each student has a card on which they graphically indicate the units taken; Then the teacher will check if they have done it satisfactorily. In this way the control of school work is carried out.

Advantage

• It really stimulates self-learning.
• The teachercan know more concretely the student’s abilities in the tasks he directs.
• It creates an environment in which each scholar is interested in his work and learns to respect the timeof others.

Disadvantages

• The predominance of the intellectualist aspect in learning.
• The predominance of the student’s written work.

Despite these criticisms, the Dalton plan has spread especially in Anglo-Saxon countries and the Far East .

The Dalton Plan: Transforming Education for a Brighter Future

Introduction

In the realm of modern education, the Dalton Plan stands out as a progressive and innovative approach that seeks to empower students with a personalized learning experience. Developed by Helen Parkhurst in the early 20th century, the Dalton Plan revolutionized traditional teaching methods by shifting the focus from a teacher-centered model to a student-centered one. This article explores the key principles and benefits of the Dalton Plan, highlighting why it continues to shape the educational landscape today.

What is the Dalton Plan?

The Dalton Plan is an educational framework that encourages students to take ownership of their learning journey. It challenges the conventional notion of a rigid curriculum by introducing flexibility and self-reliance. At its core, the Dalton Plan is built upon three fundamental principles:

1. House of Studies

In the Dalton Plan, the classroom is transformed into a “House of Studies,” where students are given the freedom to explore subjects based on their interests and abilities. Rather than being confined to a fixed curriculum, students work with teachers to create individualized learning plans. This approach promotes autonomy and fosters a deep sense of engagement and curiosity.

2. Assignment System

Under the Dalton Plan, students are assigned a list of “jobs” or tasks tailored to their specific learning goals. These jobs range from research projects to practical experiments and creative assignments. By taking ownership of their assignments, students acquire valuable skills such as time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

3. The Weekly Conference

The cornerstone of the Dalton Plan is the weekly conference between student and teacher. During this one-on-one session, students reflect on their progress, discuss challenges, and set goals for the upcoming week. The teacher acts as a mentor, providing guidance and support. This regular feedback loop ensures that students are constantly motivated and have a clear understanding of their academic journey.

Why is the Dalton Plan Effective?

The Dalton Plan offers several advantages over traditional teaching methods, making it a highly effective educational approach:

1. Personalized Learning

By tailoring assignments and learning plans according to each student’s interests and abilities, the Dalton Plan ensures that education is personalized. Students are more likely to stay motivated and engaged when they have a say in their learning process.

2. Promotes Responsibility and Independence

The Dalton Plan empowers students to take responsibility for their education. They learn to manage their time, set goals, and develop essential life skills such as self-discipline and accountability. These traits are invaluable in an ever-changing world.

3. Enhances Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

The Dalton Plan encourages students to think critically, explore different perspectives, and seek innovative solutions to challenges. By focusing on real-world applications, students develop a deeper understanding of concepts and acquire problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom.

4. Builds Strong Teacher-Student Relationships

Through regular one-on-one conferences, teachers develop a better understanding of their students’ strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. This personalized approach fosters strong relationships between teachers and students, creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment.

Final Thoughts

The Dalton Plan has proven to be a transformative educational framework that places students at the center of their learning journey. By promoting personalized learning, responsibility, critical thinking, and strong teacher-student relationships, it equips students with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the Dalton Plan continues to shape the future of education, ushering in a new era of empowered and engaged learners. It is a testament to the power of innovation and a reminder that education must always adapt and evolve to meet the needs of the students it serves.