Who is the exponent of the Dalton Plan?
Detailed Explanation
📌 Core Theoretical Concept:
The Dalton Plan, also known as the Dalton Laboratory Plan, is an innovative child-centered educational framework developed by Miss Helen Parkhurst in Dalton, Massachusetts. The primary objective of this method is to eliminate rigid traditional classroom structures, fixed timetables, and rote learning, replacing them with a system based on freedom, cooperation, and individual differences. In this method, the traditional classroom is transformed into subject-matter laboratories where students work independently at their own natural pace. The teacher acts purely as a facilitator, guide, or counselor rather than an authoritarian instructor. It highly respects individual autonomy, allowing students to plan their own work contracts and foster self-discipline and responsibility.
📊 Key Exam Points:
- Individual Differences: The plan fully accommodates diverse learning rates, acknowledging that every child learns differently and possesses unique cognitive abilities.
- Freedom and Responsibility: Students choose their tasks and manage their time under learning contracts, building deep accountability.
- Distractor Analysis: Pomponazzi was a philosopher, Spearman proposed the Two-Factor Theory of Intelligence, and Alfred Binet is renowned for developing the first intelligence scale. Thus, option 'd' is correct.
📖 Theoretical Reference: The Dalton Plan aligns strongly with the principles of progressive education and child-centered education, promoting experiential learning and independent inquiry.