In the lush town of Boljoon, Cebu, an educational institution stands out from the rest, transforming the lives of its students through a unique and innovative approach to pedagogy. The Patronage of Mary Development School (PMDS) has successfully integrated music, dance, and various art forms into its curriculum, placing humanistic philosophy at the forefront of its teaching methods. Through the power of creativity, PMDS aims to cultivate essential non-cognitive skills, yielding students who are resilient, emotionally intelligent, and adept at teamwork.
A Humanistic Approach to Education
At PMDS, the concept of education surpasses the traditional confines of academic achievement. The school firmly believes that nurturing the whole person is equally vital for the students’ overall development. Thus, its brand of pedagogy is grounded in humanistic philosophy, which prioritizes the personal, emotional, and social growth of each student.
Recognizing the transformative power of art, PMDS utilizes music, dance, and other forms of artistic expression as the foundation of its teaching methods. By integrating these creative pursuits into the curriculum, PMDS aims to foster personal and emotional growth while cultivating practical skills and knowledge.
Nurturing Non-Cognitive Skills
One of the primary focuses at PMDS is the development of non-cognitive skills, which are essential in today’s ever-changing world. Through art and creative expression, students engage in activities that promote teamwork, resilience, and emotional intelligence.
Teamwork is instilled through collaborative projects, where students are encouraged to work together to create performances, choreograph dances, or compose musical pieces. This invaluable skill prepares them for the challenges of collaborating and cooperating with others, both in and outside the classroom.
Resilience, a vital characteristic for success, is nurtured by pushing students outside their comfort zones. PMDS encourages them to explore their boundaries and embrace the unfamiliar, helping them develop self-confidence, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
Emotional intelligence, often overlooked in traditional educational settings, is honed through the celebration of emotions in artistic expression. Music, dance, and art encourage students to explore their feelings, fostering self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to effectively communicate their emotions.
Fr. Loreto Jaque: A Champion of Mental Health through Art
Recently, PMDS had the privilege of hosting Fr. Loreto Jaque, a diocesan priest and renowned advocate of art as a tool for mental health development. Fr. Jaque conducted workshops and recollections for both teachers and students, further enriching their understanding and appreciation of the healing power of art.
Fr. Jaque emphasized the transformative impact of utilizing art as an outlet for emotional expression and fostering mental well-being. Through his engaging sessions, the teachers and students of PMDS gained insights into the profound mental and emotional benefits of incorporating art into their lives.
The Future of Education
As the unique training at PMDS continues to yield exceptional students, the school stands as a symbol of progressive education, embodying the future of learning. PMDS’s commitment to cultivating non-cognitive skills through art and humanistic pedagogy is a testament to the school’s dedication to producing well-rounded individuals capable of thriving beyond the classroom.
In a society that often undervalues the importance of emotional intelligence and non-cognitive skills, PMDS serves as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and emotional growth. As the world evolves, the school’s approach to education ensures that its students are equipped not only with knowledge but also with the essential skills necessary to navigate an ever-changing landscape with grace, empathy, and confidence.
