* Humanistic education focuses on the individual: It emphasizes personal growth, creativity, and understanding the human experience. Memorization is seen as a relatively passive activity that doesn't necessarily lead to deeper understanding or application of knowledge.
* Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving: A humanistic approach encourages students to think critically, analyze information, and apply what they learn to real-world situations. This requires more than just memorization.
* Meaningful learning: Humanistic education emphasizes learning that is relevant to students' lives and interests. Memorizing isolated facts without context or connection to real-world experiences is not considered meaningful.
Instead of memorization, a humanistic principal would likely prioritize:
* Experiential learning: Activities that allow students to actively engage with the material, such as projects, discussions, and real-world applications.
* Collaborative learning: Working in groups to share ideas, solve problems, and learn from each other.
* Student voice and choice: Allowing students to have a say in their learning experiences and pursue their own interests.
* Emotional and social development: Fostering students' empathy, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
In summary, a humanistic approach to curriculum emphasizes understanding, application, and personal growth, rather than simply memorizing facts.