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From the beginning, the ideas above inspired our work and actions. Now, even more sure
of these principles, and guided by thinking routines, it is evident to us that education lacks a
meaningful emphasis on thinking. If we learn how to think, if we develop good thinking habits,
if we work on our abilities as thinkers and work towards proactive and productive learning, we
will then make a difference in education.
At Edu1st, we have the conviction that it is possible to learn from our environment.
Given this fact, a child that is raised in a culture that values and promotes responsible and
productive thinking will become a responsible and productive thinker himself. We have put these
theories in practice in our schools, and the results of developing a thinking culture in an
individual have been increasingly fascinating.
5. Every human being is susceptible to change
We believe that all humans are susceptible to change. No matter the age, when people
find the deeper meaning in what they do, an internal motivation gives them the willingness to
change for a higher good. Maslow’s idea that every person has a strong desire to fulfill their
complete potential is evident when we see our teachers are discovering a deeper meaning in their
role as educators when they are introduced to VESS.
In the same way, when a student discovers knowledge through understanding, everything
that he learns becomes more powerful and gains more meaning. It is in that moment – when
passion for learning is discovered – that students become lifelong learners. As educators we must
teach for comprehension, we must motivate the students to discover the meaning of all that they
do, and we must find the meaning of what we do ourselves. One of the main problems with
education is that there are many teachers who are not pleased with what they do.
6. Every child is an active citizen of the world.
The main factor that determines the way somebody will be treated by others is the status
that this person has among his or her community. Status determines the value given to a person’s
opinion, their presumed potential, and the treatment they receive. This is the reason why, in