The entire curriculum is based on the development of critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills. Therefore, virtually all of the units could be used as components in performance packages where these skills are being assessed. The philosophy is based on the concept of experiential learning-we learn best that which we first experience and then reflect upon. Therefore, all lessons focus on student constructed learning activities. Experience precedes conceptualization.
All lessons use experiential activities to explore abstract concepts.
They rely on student directed citizen action to demonstrate that the students can apply what they have discussed in abstract. The curriculum uses the vocabulary of democracy so that children will connect democratic concepts to real behaviors. Learning is holistic. People who commit themselves to becoming change agents want to know if their efforts have made a difference. Each lesson includes a student self-assessment and reflection component which children design and carry out.