1. PERSONAL EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY
of
Jan Ware Russell, PhD
Russell Institute of Learning
I believe:
 Children at birth have the predisposition for both good and bad behavior.
 Human development without intervention tends to take the path of least resistance. An
example is – if given a choice between two tasks, one perceived as easy and fun versus
one perceived difficult and intellectual, human nature will choose the easy and fun.
 Nature and nurture both impact the developmental process, including rate of development
and developmental potential. I do not believe a deficit in either should be used as an
excuse not to challenge students to strive for higher developmental achievements.
 Learning occurs through self-discovery. A teacher (facilitator/guide) should provide an
environment where students can actively participate in the learning process. Active
participation internalizes and assists students in developing schemata upon which to build
future learning.
 The development of children is fluid. Children develop in stages emotionally,
cognitively and physically. Each area develops independently and yet interdependently
of the other areas. Forward developmental progress within each individual area is
dependent upon previous experience. There are periods and circumstances that can delay
or interrupt forward progress. Developmental delay has a greater probability of being
overcome versus overcoming developmental interruption.
 Each child is unique and develops differently (though at times similarly).
 Teachers have the challenge and the responsibility to treat each student with dignity and
respect. Teachers must build upon this positive rapport to establish a safe learning
environment that stimulates a child to learn at his/her highest capabilities while the child
negotiates the physical, emotional, and cognitive development process to adulthood.