Our Philosophy2024-09-05T09:58:55-07:00

Our Philosophy

SelfDesign is the art and science of lifelong learning

SelfDesign nurtures autonomy, curiosity, connection and collaboration, authenticity, confidence, open-mindedness, respect and resilience in all learners.

We believe…

Learning is ageless

That every learner, regardless of age, brings a unique contribution to the world. SelfDesign ensures that the learning environment becomes the vehicle rather than the obstacle in making those contributions come to life.

Learning happens everywhere

That people learn everywhere and in every moment and that learning is enriched and amplified through conversations and relationships with others.

Learning is inclusive and safe

In the safety, acceptance and inclusion of all learners in regard to ability, learning style, culture, personal or spiritual beliefs, gender identity and expression.

“When we allow natural learning habits to flourish, our children can fly with new wings of understanding.”

– Brent Cameron,
founder of SelfDesign Learning Foundation

Open the door to lifelong learning

Autonomy

Innovation

Connections

Curiousity

Responsibility

Learn what you love, love what you learn

Learning is a continuous and accumulating process rather than a product or set of outcomes. From imagining and planning, from enacting and experiencing, from reflecting and assessing to re-imagining…this process lasts a lifetime.

Learners are positioned at the centre of their individualized learning path.

Learning and personal development occur within nurturing, relational environments.

The art and science of lifelong learning

Human beings are learners. Learning is not something that needs to be imposed so if we can inspire the joy of self-authored learning in young people, they all of a sudden become passionate about the idea of learning. Check out the video to hear more from SelfDesign’s former Director of Organizational Learning and Culture, River Meyer.

The art and science of lifelong learning

Human beings are learners. Learning is not something that needs to be imposed so if we can inspire the joy of self-authored learning in young people, they all of a sudden become passionate about the idea of learning. Check out the video to hear more from SelfDesign’s former Director of Organizational Learning and Culture, River Meyer.

“The SelfDesign model has nothing to do with schooling and everything to do with lifelong learning. It is a model that has emerged from real children learning together in true freedom – freedom to be curious and enthusiastic, freedom to work together in community. This model has come from the experts in learning – the children. It has also been integrated with the latest scientific insights into how we are optimally designed as human beings. This emerging methodology is the art and science of SelfDesign…”

– Founder Brent Cameron, with River Meyer
Unfolding Our Infinite Wisdom Within SelfDesign, 2012

Read our latest philosophy blogs

Diving into SelfDesign philosophy: Part 4 – Cultivating mutual respect

2024-09-05T09:58:30-07:00July 12th, 2023|

This fourth article in our series about SelfDesign philosophy explores how mutual respect makes possible the positive supportive relationships we need and thrive under with people, animals and the planet. Fostering mutual respect with our kids takes us on a journey of partnership.

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