The practice of self-designed or self-directed learning (SDL), is one approach outside the mainstream education system that can be applied by anyone, and in any circumstances. SDL means, first and foremost, that learners--from a young age on--decide what to learn based on their own interests and passions, how they want to learn it, how long they…

Whether it is the poor quality of education, insufficient funds to access schooling, distance to schools, insecurity, or cultural norms, many children in Nigeria have been denied the opportunity to be educated. Despite the government's efforts to build schools and hire teachers, the factors responsible for the high numbers of out-of-school…

The project development school idea in Japan started in the late 1970s. Both public and private schools can become project schools. Public schools' districts and private schools' boards develop the project plan and submit the application to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). Once approved, the project school…

Describes the state of Summerhill following the death of its former director, A.S. Neill, in 1973 and raises several questions about its operating procedures. (SS)

Author suggests four possible paths toward realistic educational options--with suggestions for ways principals can help extend teachers' realm of choice.'' (Editor/CB)

An account of the collaboration among Geoffrey Pyke, Susan and Nathan Isaacs, and Evelyn Lawrence in their association with the innovative Malting House School of Cambridge, England. (SS)

Cites findings of 1974 Ford Foundation report in support of educational alternatives, notes summary of research on alternative public schools, and briefly discusses conclusions from evaluations of alternative public schools in six cities. Also notes three current trends in options, including magnet schools and back-to-basics optional elementary…

Advocates a change in educational emphasis in which humanism is seen not as an alternative but as a given. Suggests switching focus from measuring end-results to providing options which emphasize process and which reflect two themes, namely active learning from concrete experience and the symbolization of that experience through sensory means. (BR)

A professor of open education defends the goals and methodology of "informal schooling". (CS)

Examines the scale and nature of supplementary tutoring around the world including its cultural, educational, and economic factors and the far-reaching implications for academic achievement, social inequalities, and economic development. Contends that the multiple dimensions of supplementary tutoring should be explored more fully, as well as its…

Describes three school programs designed to provide alternative schooling for Brazilian street children and illiterate adult students with the basic skills to survive in their world. Directly or indirectly embedded in Freirean principles, the three programs are: (1) Sao Paulo Interdisciplinary School Reform; (2) Projeto Axe: Schooling for Street…

Describes the "Living Values Activities for Refugees and Children Affected by War" program and its use in two refugee camps in Thailand. Details how the program provides children an opportunity to relate their experiences in an accepting environment and offers some tools for dealing with emotional pain, while helping them develop…

Examines the issue of balance between community rules and personal freedom as it relates to who should control the education of children in Norway. Reviews the historical development of alternative education in Norway, including the growth of private schools and home schooling. Comments on future educational needs and the provision of good…

Describes four Australian initiatives that incorporate nontraditional approaches to education: (1) multiple and flexible pathways; (2) virtual schools; (3) workplace-based learning convergence; and (4) community of knowledge builders. Asserts that the particulars of these four initiatives can offer important points to the discussion about broader…

Describes the cooperative efforts of corporations, foundations, organizations, institutions of higher learning, and community support that transformed a church into one of the first charter schools in the state of New York. Describes the process, offerings, and continuing challenges of the King Center and asserts that it is a model of…