RUSSELL INSTITUTION OF LEARNING

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• Children are born in the image of God. (Genesis 1:26-27)

• 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. (Romans 3:10-18)

• Nature (external forces) and nurture (parental forces) 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. (Jeremiah 29:11, Proverbs 1:8-9, Proverbs 22:6, Proverbs 15:5, Proverbs 10:1, Romans 1:21-31)

• 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. (Proverbs 25:2)

• The development of children is fluid.  Children develop in stages spiritually, 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. (Luke 2:52)

• Each child is unique and develops differently (though at times similarly). (Psalm 139:2-3; 13-14, 16, Jeremiah 1:4-5, Ephesians 2:10)

• 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 spiritual, emotional, cognitive, and physical development process to adulthood. (Matthew 19:14, Titus 2:7-8, James 3:1-2, Luke 6:40, Psalm 32:8, John 14:26, 2 Timothy 2:2, 15, Matthew 5:19, Colossians 3:16)