Comparing Classical Education and Acton Academy
As educational choices expand, parents are increasingly exploring diverse schooling options to best suit their children's needs. Two notable models are Classical Education and Acton Academy. Understanding their philosophies, methodologies, and objectives can help parents make informed decisions.
Classical Education
Philosophy and Approach
While controverial, Classical education has been on the rise since the 1980s. The approach to education is rooted in the traditions of Western civilization, emphasizing the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty. It aims to cultivate wisdom and virtue by immersing students in the liberal arts and great books of Western literature. This educational model traces its origins to ancient Greece and Rome, where the concept of a well-rounded education was seen as essential for preparing citizens to participate in civic life and public discourse.
In the US - Hillsdale College, a Christian liberal arts institution, has played a significant role in driving the demand for classical education through its emphasis on traditional values, rigorous academics, and moral character development. It advocates for a return to classical learning principles rooted in Western civilization, focusing on the liberal arts and great books. Hillsdale's K-12 classical education initiative supports schools nationwide, including Dublin’s Ohio Classical Academy, by providing curricula, teacher training, and resources to cultivate an education grounded in truth, beauty, and goodness.
Classical education is refined through the Trivium and Quadrivium, which formed the foundation of medieval university education. The Renaissance further revived interest in classical texts and ideas, shaping much of what we now recognize as classical education.
The curriculum is structured around the Trivium, comprising three stages:
Grammar Stage (Grades K - 4): Focuses on foundational knowledge and memorization.
Logic (Dialectic) Stage (Grades 5 - 8): Develops critical thinking and analytical skills, usually in middle school.
Rhetoric Stage (Grades 9 - 12): Enhances eloquence and persuasive communication, generally in high school.
This progression aligns with children's cognitive development, fostering a deep understanding of language, logic, and expression. Additionally, classical education often incorporates the Quadrivium—arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy—to provide a comprehensive liberal arts education.
Curriculum and Methodology
The classical curriculum is rich in literature, history, philosophy, and languages, often including Latin and Greek. Students engage with the great books, studying works by authors such as Homer, Plato, and Shakespeare, to understand enduring ideas and cultural heritage. The Socratic method is frequently employed, encouraging dialogue and critical inquiry. While memorization is a component, especially in the Grammar Stage, the overarching goal is to develop independent thinkers who can reason and articulate ideas effectively.
Key characteristics of Hillsdale Classical Schools emphasize a content-rich curriculum that balances math, science, literature, and history, with a strong focus on phonics, grammar, and Latin. The program acknowledges objective standards of truth, goodness, and beauty, and promotes moral virtue, decorum, and discipline. For more information, visit Hillsdale Classical Education.
The Ten Key Points of Hillsdale Classical Education:
A curriculum that is content-rich, balanced, and strong across math, science, literature, and history.
The Western tradition is central in the study of history, literature, philosophy, and the fine arts.
Study of the American literary, moral, philosophical, political, and historical traditions.
Explicit instruction in phonics and grammar.
The study of Latin as a requirement for all students.
An approach to instruction that acknowledges objective standards of truth, goodness, and beauty.
A well-educated and articulate faculty who use traditional, teacher-led methods of instruction.
A commitment to use technology effectively without diminishing faculty leadership.
A plan to serve Grades K through 12 to provide continuity and recurring examination of subjects.
A school culture of moral virtue, decorum, respect, discipline, and studiousness among both students and faculty.
Classical education provides a more traditional framework that mirrors elements of historical schooling, offering structure and rigor to build intellectual foundations.
Acton Academy
Philosophy and Approach
Acton Academy represents a modern, learner-driven educational model that emphasizes self-directed learning, entrepreneurship, and real-world skills. Founded on the belief that each child is a genius destined to find a calling that changes the world, Acton inspires learners to discover their passions and find joy in learning. The role of educators, referred to as "Guides," is to facilitate rather than direct learning, creating an environment where students are empowered to explore their interests and develop autonomy.
Acton Academy combines elements of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Waldorf philosophies. It values a hands-on, project-based approach to learning, encouraging students to ask questions, experiment, and make discoveries through meaningful, real-world challenges. Learners engage in "quests," which are multi-week projects designed to solve real-world problems while developing practical skills, teamwork, and critical thinking.
Quests and Project-Based Learning
Quests are central to Acton Academy's approach, providing learners with opportunities to work on multi-disciplinary projects that connect learning to real-world applications. Examples of quests include:
Entrepreneurship Quest: Learners create and run their own business, developing products, marketing strategies, and sales plans.
Survivor Quest: Learners develop teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills by facing outdoor challenges, building shelters, purifying water, and navigating maps. This quest emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and collaborate under pressure.
Marine Science Quest: Learners research ocean ecosystems, build models, and present their findings on marine conservation.
Personal Finance Quest: Focuses on budgeting, investing, and financial planning through simulations and real-world scenarios.
Civics Quest: Students explore government systems, create campaigns, and debate policies, fostering civic engagement.
Health and Wellness Quest: Focuses on biological systems and whole health practices, encouraging self-awareness and well-being.
These quests encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, allowing students to take ownership of their learning process and develop skills they can carry into adulthood.
Curriculum and Methodology
Acton Academy utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online educational tools with collaborative group work. Learners set goals and track progress, earning badges to demonstrate mastery in various subjects. The curriculum emphasizes the "4 C's"—Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication, and Collaboration—through hands-on projects and Socratic discussions.
Acton’s approach fosters a growth mindset and problem-solving skills, encouraging learners to view mistakes as opportunities for growth. This balance between autonomy and collaboration prepares learners for real-world challenges and lifelong learning.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Classical Education | Acton Academy |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | Rooted in Western tradition, focusing on wisdom and virtue. | Modern, learner-driven, focusing on autonomy and purpose. |
| Curriculum Structure | Structured, sequential curriculum (Trivium and Quadrivium). | Flexible, personalized learning paths. |
| Teacher Role | Teacher-led instruction and Socratic dialogue. | Guides facilitate learning; students take ownership. |
| Focus Areas | Language, logic, rhetoric, and classical texts. | Entrepreneurship, real-world skills, and growth mindset. |
| Technology Integration | Limited use of technology; focus on books and discussion. | Use of offline material, Socratic discussion, and online platforms for personalized learning. |
| Assessment Style | Tests, essays, and oral recitations. | Badges, portfolios, and real-world projects. |
| Classroom Environment | Structured and teacher-directed. | Collaborative, interactive, and self-directed. |
| Skills Development | Emphasis on memorization, critical thinking, and debate. | Focus on creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. |
| Homework Policy | Regular, structured homework assignments. | No homework; emphasis on completing work during school hours. |
| Dress Code | Uniforms required to promote discipline and decorum. | No uniforms; focus on comfort and individuality. |
Conclusion
Both Classical Education and Acton Academy offer distinct approaches to learning.
Classical Education provides a structured, teacher-led framework rooted in Western heritage through the study of timeless texts and classical disciplines.
In contrast, Acton Academy emphasizes learner-driven, project-based learning that inspires creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.
As you explore options, consider your child's unique needs and learning style when choosing between these approaches. The decision ultimately depends on which philosophy aligns best with your family's values and educational goals.