Education

Interview by Vladimir Pogodin

Original in Russian: blog.skillbox.by
Interview by Vladimir Pogodin

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Vladimir Pogodin is a computer science teacher and digital transformation coordinator at The New School. His work is focused on integrating modern technologies into the educational process, which helps improve the quality of learning and prepare students for the demands of the digital age. Pogodin actively uses innovative teaching methods, which makes his approach to teaching computer science unique and effective.

  • Teaching experience since 2004, teacher of the highest qualification category.
  • Author of the popular series of manuals for elementary grades "Mathematical warm-ups".
  • Graduated from the Moscow State Institute of Electronics and Mathematics (engineer), Sholokhov Moscow State University for the Humanities (computer science teacher), Moscow State Pedagogical University (education manager) and Shaninka (Master of Psychology).
  • In 2009, he became a finalist in the "Teacher of the Year Moscow" competition, and in 2018, the absolute winner of the all-Russian "iTeacher" competition.

Modern education is undergoing significant changes, and one of the key trends is the introduction of personal trajectories and an individualized approach. However, this does not quite coincide with the concept of human-oriented or human-centered education. What is the essence of this approach? Why do examples of truly human-centered schools remain rare, despite the fact that the idea has been around for some time? We discussed these questions with Vladimir Pogodin and recorded his thoughts.

Brief information about the topic.

Vladimir Pogodin is a qualified computer science teacher and digital transformation coordinator at the New School. His experience in education and technology contributes to the implementation of innovative solutions that help students master digital skills. In his work, Vladimir actively uses modern teaching methods, which makes the learning process more effective and engaging for students.

  • Teaching experience since 2004, teacher of the highest qualification category.
  • Author of the popular series of manuals for elementary grades "Mathematical warm-ups".
  • Graduated from the Moscow State Institute of Electronics and Mathematics (engineer), Moscow State University of the Humanities. Sholokhov (computer science teacher), Moscow State Pedagogical University (education manager), and Shaninka (Master of Psychology).
  • In 2009, he became a finalist in the "Moscow Teacher of the Year" competition, and in 2018, he was the absolute winner of the all-Russian "iTeacher" competition.

What is a human-centered school?

The human-centered approach to learning, known in English as the person-centered approach, was developed in the 1960s by the outstanding American psychologist Carl Rogers. Rogers is one of the founders of humanistic psychology and pedagogy. This approach focuses on the individual needs and interests of students, which contributes to a deeper and more effective learning process. A person-centered approach helps create an atmosphere of trust and support, which, in turn, enhances student motivation and engagement.

A person-centered school is a space where every student receives support, understanding, and the opportunity for individual development. Here, each student's individuality is valued, and learning is built on collaboration rather than the imposition of knowledge. This approach is based on the three key interpersonal communication principles developed by Carl Rogers. These principles are aimed at creating a trusting atmosphere conducive to harmonious personal development and effective learning.

A person-centered school aims to develop three key attitudes in both teachers and students. Teachers must not only reinforce these attitudes in themselves but also create the appropriate conditions conducive to their development in children. In today's environment, this is a significant challenge.

Recalling your school years, the question arises: were you able to openly discuss your problems with your teacher?

A person-centered school is a space where a child can find support and understanding. Several adults work here, ready to listen and discuss the child's concerns. It is important that they approach communication with respect, without imposing ready-made solutions or judging. Instead, they create an atmosphere of trust, which promotes the development of emotional maturity and critical thinking in the student. This approach helps children feel comfortable sharing their experiences and finding their own solutions to problems.

On the differences between a person-centered school and a traditional one

Traditional school education, even in its most positive manifestation, focuses on perceiving the child as an object. This approach limits the opportunity for individual development and self-awareness in the student. It is important to rethink educational methods so that they promote children's active participation in the learning process, and not simply the perception of knowledge. Creating an environment where students can demonstrate initiative and creativity is key to more effective learning and development. The object of our education is formed like a factory component. If a child demonstrates diligence and achieves results, they can be considered successful. Otherwise, they fail. This is perceived as a normal, systemic characteristic by all participants in the educational process: children, parents, teachers, and administration. Unlike traditional approaches, human-centered education focuses on developing the unique potential of each individual, taking into account their interests and abilities. This approach promotes a deeper understanding and acquisition of knowledge, which in turn creates confident and creative individuals capable of adapting to changes in the world. School plays a key role in personal development and the formation of a worldview. It provides the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful life and also helps develop critical thinking and social skills. Education at school contributes not only to academic growth but also to the development of emotional intelligence, an important aspect of modern society. The educational process shapes students' understanding of the world, their place in it, and their responsibility for their actions. Thus, school is the foundation for the harmonious development of the individual and an understanding of reality. Traditional object-oriented education strives to instill in children a certain perception of the world. However, there is doubt that this perception is adequate and reflects reality. It is important to consider how modern approaches to learning can help children develop more flexible and critical thinking, contributing to a better understanding of the world around them. Human-centered education differs significantly from the traditional mass approach. In this learning model, children actively relate the worldview they are developing to their own personality. They understand why they need knowledge and constantly ask themselves important questions: “Why am I learning this? What will happen if I don’t study this? What path am I choosing?” A child may express their reluctance to participate in the learning process by saying, “I’m not interested.” It's important that they aren't left alone with these thoughts, but receive the necessary support that promotes self-actualization and development. This allows each student to find their place in the world and actively participate in their education.

A child cannot completely avoid learning; they constantly acquire new knowledge and skills as they develop. Every day, through interaction with the world around them, they learn important lessons that shape their personality and worldview. Whether it occurs at school, at home, or on the street, learning is an integral part of a child's life.

It is important to understand where exactly learning takes place and what knowledge and skills are being acquired. Given different educational institutions, the learning process may vary. The key aspect is the specific knowledge and skills a person acquires and how they can impact their future.

A person-centered school is not just an educational institution, but a space where a complete personality is formed, not just individual subject skills. In such a school, the emphasis is on developing the individuality and abilities of each student, which contributes to their harmonious development and social adaptation. Unlike traditional educational systems, a human-centered approach creates conditions for deep understanding and acquisition of knowledge, which ultimately contributes to the development of confident and self-sufficient individuals. A personality is someone capable of making independent decisions and justifying them. They are someone who has the opportunity to choose what to study and what not. A personality is characterized by independence and freedom. However, traditional schools often create a lack of freedom, which is reflected in their documents, including internal regulations. Few students or their parents object to this approach. It is important to recognize that freedom of choice in education promotes personal development and critical thinking, which in turn influences the future of each individual. Traditional schools are characterized by high competition, where students are constantly compared to one another. This creates an atmosphere of rivalry that can impact students' academic performance and self-esteem. Such conditions often lead to stressful situations, which can negatively impact children's learning and emotional well-being. It's important to consider alternative approaches that foster collaboration and support among students, which in turn can improve the quality of education and enhance the classroom climate.

Competition and a person-centered approach are often at odds. Comparisons between people are inappropriate, as each person is unique. Instead of comparing students to others, it's important to focus on their own progress. A person-centered school approach emphasizes individual achievements and growth. In this way, we create an environment in which everyone can develop at their own pace, which fosters a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement.

A person-centered approach emphasizes the needs and interests of individuals rather than formal results and grades. This approach involves creating an environment in which each participant feels valued and appreciated. Instead of focusing on quantitative indicators, it's important to consider the qualitative aspects of interaction, which fosters a deeper understanding and satisfaction of needs. A human-centered approach enables us to achieve not only effective results but also harmonious relationships, which ultimately leads to sustainable development.

The main priority is the development of the child and the formation of a multifaceted perception of the world. This development, as well as the development of academic independence and the ability to learn, ultimately lead to the results expected in traditional educational institutions.

On the role of the teacher in a human-centered school

A human-centered school is an institution that emphasizes children's education, and not simply the process of their learning. In such a school, children actively participate in the educational process, developing critical thinking and independence. The main goal is to create conditions conducive to the personal development of each student, and not simply the transfer of knowledge. It is important that the educational process be adapted to the needs and interests of children, enabling them to better absorb the material and develop the skills necessary for life in modern society.

The learning process and interest in knowledge originate with the children themselves and must be constantly supported. In this situation, the teacher's role is transformed. The teacher becomes not just a source of information, but a mentor and motivator who helps develop curiosity and critical thinking in students. It is important to create an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and asking questions. Effective learning requires active interaction between students and the teacher, which promotes deep learning and the development of a lasting interest in learning.

A human-centered teacher is a specialist who actively supports and guides the development of each student. Such a teacher creates conditions for individual growth, taking into account the unique needs and abilities of each student. Their task is not only to impart knowledge but also to instill in students self-confidence, develop critical thinking, and the ability to learn independently. A human-centered approach to education fosters a trusting atmosphere where every student feels valued and important. It is not a mentor, as this word implies a certain hierarchy, where guidance comes from a position of superiority. A mentor represents a more sensitive approach to traditional teaching, but it is not focused on the individual student. Rogers once described the role of the teacher in human-centered learning as a facilitator. I also prefer to use this term, despite its multiple meanings in the modern context. A facilitator in the educational process helps students develop their own skills and critical thinking, creating an atmosphere that is supportive and open to new ideas. This allows students not only to absorb information but also to actively participate in their learning, which is a key aspect of the human-centered approach. One of the key competencies of a teacher-facilitator is the ability to act as a consultant. This ability allows them to effectively guide and support students, creating conditions for their independent thinking and active participation in the educational process. The advisory role helps teachers not only share knowledge but also develop critical thinking skills in students, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the material and builds their self-confidence.

I once wrote an essay entitled "The Teacher as a Consultant," which became the basis for my dissertation. While researching this material, I explored the additional competencies required of teachers. Ultimately, I concluded that these competencies overlap with the core qualifications of specialists in the field of psychological counseling. This applies not to classical psychologists, but specifically to consultants who help people find solutions and develop. It is important to note that teachers with such skills can more effectively support students in their educational process and personal development.

About the curriculum in a human-centered school

In a human-centered school, the educational program is developed jointly with the child. This approach allows us to take into account the individual interests and needs of each student, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the material and the development of personal responsibility for their own learning. The interaction between teachers and students creates an atmosphere of trust and cooperation, which is the basis for a successful educational process.

Today, we do not see the full implementation of a human-centered school, although this concept is actively discussed. It is important to talk about the direction and prioritization of education, which should take into account the needs and interests of students. A human-centered approach to teaching involves creating a comfortable and supportive environment where each student can develop in the best possible way. We are on the path to this ideal, and discussing such initiatives is an important step toward improving the educational system.

In a human-centered school, the emphasis is not on the curriculum, but on the individual student. Here, the primary value is the development of each student's individual qualities and needs. This approach creates a more comfortable and productive educational environment, where attention is paid not only to academic knowledge but also to personal growth. In this context, education becomes more adaptive and student-centered, which contributes to their success and self-realization.

In our schools, this particularity is difficult to accept, as the primary focus is on the curriculum. It is important to understand that the approach to teaching must consider not only the content of the courses but also the needs of the students. Effective learning requires flexibility in teaching methods, which will create a more comfortable educational environment. The time has come to reconsider traditional methods and implement new approaches adapted to modern requirements.

It is necessary to realize that completely abandoning the curriculum is impractical, and its destruction is not the goal. The curriculum continues to be the foundation of the educational process and requires a careful approach to its adjustment and improvement.

The meaning of a child's education lies in focusing on their needs and interests. To achieve this, it is important that facilitators, teachers, and tutors support them in recognizing the significance of the material being studied. They should help the child determine whether they truly need what they are learning and also offer various paths for mastering knowledge. This approach fosters a deeper understanding and motivation for learning, which ultimately improves the quality of education. There are formats that allow for the development of individualized learning programs for each child. This approach to education takes into account the unique needs and abilities of each student, ensuring more effective and personalized learning. The use of such formats helps create optimal conditions for children's development, promoting their successful learning and unlocking their potential. Individualized learning plans and part-time education are important elements of the educational process. However, in practice, a truly student-centered approach is often lacking. In most cases, individualization simply involves the child choosing specific learning profiles, which is a superficial solution to the problem. True individualization of education must take into account the unique abilities and interests of each student, providing them with the opportunity to develop at their own pace and direction.

About the learning process in a human-centered school

If you need to hammer a nail, you turn to a tool called a hammer. A hammer is the primary tool for this task, providing efficiency and accuracy when driving nails into various materials. Choosing the right hammer and knowing how to use it can greatly simplify the process. Hammers come in different types, and their choice depends on the specific task and the material you are working with.

Learning how a hammer works is not a prerequisite for using it. You simply pick up a hammer and hammer a nail. In a human-centered school, children, like this example, immediately begin to apply their knowledge in practice. They strive to understand the purpose and meaning of the material being studied, as well as how this knowledge can be applied in real life and the benefits it brings. This approach promotes deeper learning and the development of critical thinking in children.

Project-based activities are an important element of a human-centered school. They promote the development of creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills in students. Through project-based activities, students can apply their acquired knowledge in practice, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the educational material. Furthermore, project-based work helps develop responsibility and teamwork skills in students, which are essential in the modern world. A human-centered approach to education emphasizes the individual needs and interests of each student, which increases motivation and engagement in the learning process. Project-based activities in such a school help create an atmosphere of collaboration and support, which in turn contributes to the personal and professional growth of students.

To create something, tools are needed. These tools are learned through various academic disciplines, sometimes several of them are required simultaneously. To gain a deeper understanding of a phenomenon that can be viewed from different angles, knowledge from fields such as geography, physics, and others is needed. All aspects of cognition are interconnected and complement each other.

About the Goals of Learning in a Human-Centered School

Learning always has a goal. Even when it seems that it does not lead to a specific result, each lesson or study forms skills and knowledge that may be useful in the future. Aimless learning is a myth. Every step in the learning process, regardless of its direction, contributes to personal and professional development. Thus, even indirect paths lead to new opportunities and discoveries. Understanding the goals and outcomes of learning helps to better structure the educational process and increases its effectiveness.

To achieve success, it is necessary to set clear goals. However, as a teacher, I cannot impose my goals on children, saying, "Here is a task for you, complete it." This would be wrong. Instead, I create opportunities for my students, allowing them to set their own goals and focus on their personal interests and desires. This approach promotes independence and responsibility in children, which ultimately helps them achieve their goals more effectively. Setting goals without the ability to choose is a suboptimal approach. It is important to have the freedom of choice to adapt to changing circumstances and reconsider your priorities. Flexibility in planning helps not only achieve set goals but also find the most effective ways to achieve them. Choice allows you to take into account individual characteristics and preferences, which increases the likelihood of success. Creating conditions for choice is a key element in achieving goals and contributes to the development of personal effectiveness. A child always makes a choice, even when it comes to creating a website. For example, you can suggest that they develop a web resource, which will become a specific goal. However, this goal depends on many factors. If the site is needed to present the research work they have completed, and the child decides to abandon this idea, there is nothing wrong with that. If they are not interested in creating a website, you can consider alternative ways of presenting the results. It's important to understand that the presentation is meaningful because it allows others to understand the results of their work.

I'm against setting goals for children to achieve like soldiers. In this case, the child doesn't learn, but simply completes tasks. However, at this age, children shouldn't yet work. We can't offer them decent compensation for their work, except perhaps grades, and they begin to perceive it as preparation for adult life. It's important for the learning process to be meaningful and interesting, and not turn into a routine.

It's important to discuss the significance of certain tasks with children. Understanding the goals and objectives of the learning process helps children realize how tasks contribute to their development and learning. This not only motivates them to complete tasks, but also forms a deeper attitude toward learning. Discussing tasks with children promotes the development of critical thinking and improves their communication skills.

When creating an assignment, I clearly outline the skills that will be developed through its completion. This helps participants understand why they need to complete the task and what benefits they will receive. As a result, they can monitor their progress in developing these skills, which fosters their motivation and self-awareness.

It's important to encourage children to contribute their own ideas and suggestions to the process. This fosters their creative development and instills a sense of responsibility for the results. Incorporating children's personal wishes makes classes more engaging and helps them better absorb the material. By stimulating their initiative, you also help develop collaboration and communication skills.

Goals set for a person often do not allow for changes and adjustments, as in the military. In such situations, it's important to follow established directions and not get distracted by additional ideas. Focusing on achieving a specific result becomes a primary task, even if there is room for improvement or addition to the process. Accepting strict boundaries is sometimes necessary for success, especially when it comes to achieving set goals.

Real Examples of Human-Centered Schools

Schools focused on human-centered education exist in various countries and continue to develop. These institutions focus on the needs and interests of students, creating conditions for their comprehensive development. A human-centered approach to education promotes the development of active students, their involvement in the learning process, and the development of critical thinking. In such schools, an important aspect is not only academic achievement, but also social skills, emotional development, and creative thinking. This approach helps prepare students for real-life situations, providing them with the necessary competencies for successful integration into society.

In Russia, the M. P. Shchetinin and A. N. Tubelsky schools actively employ a student-centered approach to education. These educational institutions strive to take into account the individual characteristics and needs of each student. In the United States, there are also personality-focused schools, such as the Sudbury network, which offers a unique educational model based on freedom of choice and self-determination. In the UK, the renowned Summerhill School demonstrates an effective approach to education, placing the student's personality at the center of the process. These examples demonstrate that student-centered education has its distinctive manifestations both in Russia and abroad, despite existing problems in the education system.

Finnish schools have made significant strides in developing their educational system. They were prepared for this thanks to a unique structure that connects education with society. In Finland, educational processes undergo thorough public scrutiny, demonstrating a high level of citizen engagement. In this context, the Finnish education system stands out for its openness and active community participation, allowing the views and needs of all stakeholders to be taken into account.

Finnish schools are based on trust, which is a key aspect of the human-centered educational process. Trust fosters a positive atmosphere where students and teachers can freely interact and develop. This approach not only improves the quality of learning but also instills self-confidence in students, which positively impacts their academic success.

In this society, there is a high degree of trust between teacher and student. Teachers accept children as they are, which creates an atmosphere of mutual understanding and support. This trust promotes more effective learning and development, helping children discover their talents and abilities.

A friend of mine visited Finnish schools and shared an interesting observation: a teacher says to students: "Go for a walk, I'll expect you in 20 minutes." When my friend asked the teacher, "Who is responsible for the children during these 20 minutes?" the teacher couldn't understand the question. The teacher replied, "If something happens, we'll call an ambulance and notify the parents." My friend then asked, "Who is responsible for the children's safety during this time?" The teacher was surprised, "Why should anyone be responsible?"

This dialogue illustrates the approach to education in Finland, where trust in children and their independence plays a key role. Finnish schools emphasize developing students' responsibility and decision-making abilities. This approach develops life skills in children and fosters their self-confidence.

Unlike our education system, where teachers are directly responsible for children's safety and behavior, in other countries children are given more freedom and trust. This approach to upbringing and teaching helps develop independence in students, while in our country the emphasis is on control and responsibility on the part of teachers. It is important to understand that such differences in approaches can significantly impact children's development and their readiness for adult life.

Why human-centeredness doesn't fit with our reality

Schools cannot function without connection with society. Educational institutions play a key role in shaping social values ​​and norms. Interaction between schools and society contributes to the development of both the educational process and society as a whole. The success of a school depends on the support of the local community, parents, and organizations. Thus, the integration of educational institutions into the social environment is a prerequisite for their effective operation and development.

Unfortunately, modern society is not people-centered. It is permeated with concepts of power, strength, discipline, and collectivism. Systemic schools find it difficult to resist these attitudes. As a result, human-centered schools often find themselves in opposition to prevailing societal norms. Society, in turn, rightly asks: "You say you're doing everything right, that you care about children and help them develop their personal potential. But what will they do with these skills in real life?"

Why distance learning is a test of human-centeredness

Digitalization and human-centeredness can coexist and complement each other. With the rapid development of technology, it is important not to forget about people as a central figure in this process. Digital tools and solutions should be aimed at improving the quality of life, simplifying interactions, and creating new opportunities for people. People remain a priority in the digital world, and the task of technology is to serve their interests and needs. Effective digitalization implies a harmonious combination of innovation and respect for human values, which leads to the creation of a more convenient and accessible environment for everyone.

Digital tools play an important role in maintaining social connections, especially in difficult times. When a child is sick and stays home, modern technology offers numerous opportunities to continue learning and socializing. Online platforms and apps allow them to stay engaged in the educational process, interact with classmates, and receive the support they need. Thus, digital solutions not only facilitate learning but also strengthen social connections in a time of restrictions. The transition to distance learning has opened up new opportunities for a more human-centered approach in schools. Human relationships are the foundation of such a school, and in the distance learning environment, these relationships have become especially important. Attention to each student, their needs, and emotional state has now become a key aspect of the educational process. Distance learning allows for a more flexible approach to interactions with students, creating conditions for their active engagement and support. This fosters trusting relationships between teachers and students, which in turn improves the quality of education. Students have many ways to avoid remote lessons. Existing technologies and various methods make it easy for them to become distracted from the learning process. Virtual classrooms open doors to a variety of opportunities, and sometimes students find ways to avoid participating in class. This may be due to a lack of motivation, technical problems, or simply a desire to spend time in a more engaging way. It is important to understand that such actions can negatively impact learning and academic performance, so it is necessary to find ways to increase engagement and interest in distance learning. A student will only use these tools if their relationship with the teacher remains purely formal. Imagine a situation where a teacher exclusively requires problem-solving, ignoring other aspects of the educational process. This approach limits the development of critical thinking and creativity in students. Success in learning lies not only in correct answers, but also in understanding the material, the ability to analyze and apply knowledge in practice. Effective learning should include discussion, interaction, and exchange of opinions, which promotes deeper assimilation of information and the development of skills needed in real life. The teacher asks the student: "Answer the question, and I will give you a grade." Students can simply lose interest and tune out. However, in settings where interpersonal relationships play a key role, students are more likely to remain engaged. In distance learning, teachers fall into two categories: some strive to build trusting relationships with children, while others operate at a distance, failing to foster human connections. It is precisely this lack of connection that causes students to lose interest.

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