Understanding Charlotte Mason's Educational Philosophy

Volume 6: Towards a Philosophy of Education by CM

vol 6, page 18

Understanding Charlotte Mason's Educational Philosophy

Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy offers a refreshing approach to teaching and learning, grounded in a deep respect for the child's natural curiosity and intellectual needs. Here's a simplified breakdown of her ideas to help parents understand and apply her methods in everyday life.

1. Children as Whole Persons

Mason believed that children are not just empty vessels to be filled with knowledge but are whole persons with their own spiritual and intellectual needs. Just like the body needs food, the mind needs knowledge to grow and thrive. This means that learning should be as essential and nourishing to a child’s development as eating is to their physical health.

2. The Role of Curiosity and Attention

Children are naturally curious and have an innate desire to learn. This curiosity is the driving force behind their learning process. They are also equipped with the ability to focus and understand information, which helps them absorb and process knowledge. It's important for education to tap into this natural curiosity and attention span rather than relying solely on external motivators.

3. Learning Through Literature

Mason emphasized the importance of presenting knowledge in a literary form. This means that rather than just teaching facts or concepts in isolation, children should engage with well-written books that bring ideas to life. This approach helps them to connect with the material more deeply and make the learning experience more engaging and meaningful.

4. Encouraging Original Thinking

When children learn from rich and varied sources, they are encouraged to interpret and express this knowledge in their own words. This process of personal engagement and creativity ensures that their learning is not just passive but actively shaped by their own thoughts and experiences.

5. Moral and Practical Guidance

While children are naturally inclined to learn, they still need guidance to maintain focus and discipline. One effective way to do this is by ensuring that children know they will need to discuss or recount what they’ve learned. This encourages them to pay attention and engage more deeply with the material.

6. Variety and Depth in Curriculum

A well-rounded education includes a variety of subjects, from religion and humanities to science and art. This diversity ensures that children receive a comprehensive education that caters to their varied interests and intellectual needs. Each subject should be given a dedicated time for exploration and study.

7. The Teacher’s Role

The teacher’s role is to guide, support, and inspire rather than simply instruct. Teachers should offer encouragement, help with experiments, and provide occasional input to make learning more exciting. Their goal is to make the process of learning enjoyable and to foster a sense of accomplishment in both themselves and their students.

8. The Power of Applied Principles

Mason's philosophy is not just about following general principles but about applying them rigorously. Just as a surgeon’s success relies on strict adherence to principles, effective education depends on consistently applying well-thought-out methods and practices.

9. The Value of Education for All

Mason advocated for a broad, liberal education accessible to all, regardless of social class. She believed that such an education not only enhances individual character and intellect but also contributes to a more informed and cohesive society.

10. A Call to Action

Mason's educational approach calls for a deliberate shift from traditional methods to a more thoughtful, principle-based approach. By focusing on nurturing curiosity, providing rich literary experiences, and ensuring variety in the curriculum, parents and educators can foster a more engaging and effective learning environment.

By adopting Charlotte Mason's principles, parents can help their children develop a lifelong love of learning and a strong sense of personal responsibility.