"Learning Appreciation" (Gakushu Kansho). It is not merely "praising a child." Nor is it "evaluating" their test scores or the quality of their work. Learning Appreciation is the core of our educational philosophy: an approach centered on respecting the learning process itself, "appreciating" the story of effort and ingenuity it contains, and engaging in dialogue.
In this article, we want to delve deeply into the essence and practice of why we advocate for "appreciation" instead of "evaluation."
The End of Grading: How to Spark Life in Your Classroom by "Appreciating" Student Learning in the AI Era
The Art of Letting Go of Evaluation and Discovering the Value in Learning
From "Evaluator" to "Appreciator"
When faced with a child's learning, adults unconsciously act as "evaluators." We point out mistakes with a red pen, teach the correct answer, and advise on improvements. However, this perspective overlooks the rich value hidden within the learning process.
Do we "evaluate" a painting in a museum? Rather, we try to "appreciate" the artist's brushstrokes, colors, and the intent behind the composition, seeking a dialogue. Learning Appreciation applies this very attitude to a child's learning. The role of the adult is not to be a judge, but to be the ultimate "appreciator" who discovers the joy in a child's learning and communicates its value.
A child's notebook is a work of art. It depicts a story of their engagement with the world and a trail of their unique thoughts, which transcends right or wrong answers. To become the first and most enthusiastic reader of that story—that is Learning Appreciation.
The Three Gifts of Learning Appreciation
The practice of Learning Appreciation brings invaluable gifts to the child, the adult, and the community.
- For the Child: The Wings of Self-Esteem
The experience of having their trial-and-error process acknowledged fosters an absolute sense of security—"I am okay as I am"—and a self-esteem that is not afraid of challenges. - For the Adult: The Joy of Discovery and Deep Trust
Appreciating a child's learning is an intellectual adventure full of surprises and discoveries. It transcends the evaluator-evaluated relationship, creating a warm bond of trust between fellow explorers of learning. - For the Community: A Culture of Peer Learning
In a place where one's learning is respected, a culture of respecting others' learning naturally develops. The home and classroom transform into psychologically safe "peer-learning communities" that appreciate and support each other's challenges.
Learning Appreciation is not a superficial technique. It is our response to the fundamental question of how people, and society, should engage with learning.
