What is Catholic Liberal or “Classical” Education?

Classical education is a liberal arts education rooted in Christ. “Liberal”, in this case, means “free” (from the Latin liber, meaning free). Liberal arts education frees the student from the sole purpose of utilitarianism, and is education that cultivates faith and reason for full human flourishing. Classical education prepares young people to live in freedom and independence, engaging them in the highest matters and the deepest questions of truth, justice, virtue, and beauty. By engaging our students in wonder, we lead them to a greater wisdom, which brings them ultimately to the worship and affirmation of Christ as the source of all that is good, true, and beautiful. 

Academically, a classical education encompasses:

• A content-rich, traditional curriculum, including the use of classical books and art.
• Concentrated study of the core academic disciplines: history, literature, mathematics, religion, language, and science.
• An appreciation for—and study of—the visual and performing arts.
• A strong emphasis on language, literacy, writing, and mastery of the English language.
• Reading of the great books in literature and primary source documents in history.

Teaching methods of classical education include:

• Socratic Method: a method of inquiry where a teacher or facilitator asks a series of questions to guide students to discover their own understanding and reach a conclusion through critical thinking, rather than being explicitly told the answer.
• Seminar: a formal and focused discussion where students deeply analyze texts.
• Picture Study: students engage and analyze great works of art through contemplation and Socratic discussion.
• Imitation in Language:
  • Narration: Re-telling as a re-presentation of a story
  • Recitation: Intoning that which is worth learning by heart
  • Copywork: Reproducing an excellent passage in excellent penmanship
  • Dictation: Writing a passage that is read or spoken aloud
  • Imitatio: Imitating the structure and cadence of a passage
  • Drama: Representing the dialogue and action of a scene or story
• Schole (“leisurely learning” or “restful study”): focused, contemplative approach to learning, often with discussions and reflection, rather than just rapid information acquisition. 

Resources:

• Holy See’s Teaching on Catholic Schools by Archbishop J. Michael Miller
• Renewing Catholic Schools: How to Regain a Catholic Vision for a Secular Age, Institute of Catholic Liberal Education
• “The Lost Tools of Learning” by Dorothy L. Sayers
• Awakening Wonder: A Classical Guide to Truth, Beauty & Goodness by Stephen R. Turley, Classical Academic Press
• “Gravissimum Educationis” by Pope Paul VI
• What is Catholic Liberal Education?, Institute of Catholic Liberal Education
• The Joy of Education Report
• A Guide for Parents