What does EGW write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "Educational Benefits of Gardening in Schools"
Answer
Gardening in schools provides a comprehensive educational benefit, as it promotes physical activity and gives the mind a necessary rest from theoretical study. Through direct interaction with nature, essential character traits such as patience, carefulness, and obedience to natural laws are developed. Moreover, the collaborative work in the school garden strengthens the sense of community, fosters a love of order, and practically prepares students for self‑sufficiency as well as successful interaction with other people.
Character Development and Practical Education
In soil cultivation, the thoughtful worker will discover that unexpected treasures unfold before him. ... The attention required when transplanting, so that not even a single root fiber is cramped or misplaced, the care of young plants, the pruning and watering ... teach not only important lessons for character development, but the work itself is a means of development. By cultivating carefulness, patience, love of detail, and obedience to laws, it provides a highly essential training.
Relief for the Mind and Health
Work in the garden and field will be a pleasant change from the tiring routine of abstract lessons, which young minds should never be limited to. For the nervous child or teenager who finds book‑based instruction exhausting and hard to remember, this will be especially valuable. In nature study, health and happiness lie for them.
Promotion of Community and Responsibility
When planning plant care, the teacher should try to spark interest in beautifying the school grounds and school environment. A double benefit will result. What the students seek to beautify, they will be reluctant to see defaced or damaged. A refined taste, love of order, and habit of care are promoted; and the developed spirit of fellowship and cooperation will prove a lifelong blessing for the students.
The Importance of Agricultural Education
Study in agricultural fields should be the A, B, and C of education in our schools. This is the very first work that should be undertaken. Our schools should not depend on imported products for grain, vegetables, and fruit, which are so important for health. Our youth need training in tree‑cutting and soil preparation just as much as in literary fields.
Gardening as the Lesson Book of Life
It teaches them to keep unsightly, harmful practices out of life, while teaching them how to lay out a garden... It teaches them to suppress false habits just as they suppress weeds in their gardens. It will take time to teach these lessons, but it will be worthwhile, yes, it will be very worthwhile.
- Character development through nature
- Agricultural education in schools
- Holistic education Ellen White
Original Sources (English)
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