Waldorf: Relying on Relationships

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 27
  In Roundtable Session: Policy, Big Picture, and Well-Being

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the goals and practices of teachers in three Waldorf schools during their students’ 1st grade year, focusing on a) how curriculum was reflected in student-created Main Lesson books, b) how beliefs they held regarding their role as “teacher” impacted class goals, and c) how these goals and practices influenced student work. Analysis of student work and interviews revealed strong beliefs in a) teachers’ role as authority and guide, b) the significance of relationships, c) the importance of teachers “seeing” the students, and d) the need for self-reflection.

Author

• Kimberly Marie Telfer-Radzat, University of California - Irvine