Students are discovering their personal interests and unfolding their potential as individuals. The objective is not to merely produce good students, or employees. The end result is hoped to be contented, functional human beings who contribute positively to their environment. Implications for Instructional Design Mastery of facts and skills is de-emphasized. Learning opportunities should provide a wide array of intellectual pursuits from which the student may choose.
Emphasis is on development of creativity and critical thinking skills.
The teacher nurtures the student's sense of personal identity. Interactions are geared toward supporting the student's developing self-esteem. The student's ideas, language, and culture are respected and appreciated. Academic inquiry follows the student's interests and orientations. Teachers must be open to sharing themselves honestly with students.