“Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom.”
Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, CXXII
The Bahá’í approach to education is one of promoting a moral and spiritual education, in addition to study in the arts, trades, sciences and professions. For Bahá’ís, the emphasis on education is a means for the improvement of individual and social well-being. Bahá’í-inspired education refers to education inspired by the Bahá’í teachings. While we have much to learn about what this truly looks like, through actions based on Bahá’í teachings and cycles of reflection about what was attempted, we are able to learn together and move forward.
Summer schools function in much the same way. Curricula are developed by local teams based on identified needs and opportunities. These are delivered in a loving, co-operative environment, where all voices are respected, and participation is encouraged. After each school is held, the team solicits feedback from participants and presenters, and then meets to reflect on what was learned, how well the school met its goals and what improvements can be recommended for future endeavours.
Additional Reading
What can be learned from Bahá’í-inspired educational methods? Dr. A.K. Merchant
https://medium.com/@ak.merchant/what-can-be-learnt-from-bahai-inspired-educational-methods-f6195afec80d
Education in an Age of Transition; Daniel Perell, Bahá’í International Community, September, 2018. New York, New York.
https://www.bic.org/perspectives/perspective-education-age-transition
Education and Training for the Betterment of Society; A Statement Presented by the Bahá’í International Community to the 55th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, 2011, New York, New York.
https://www.bic.org/statements/education-and-training-betterment-society
