The Practical Wisdom (sofia) maps well with the idea of critical thinking, problem solving and design thinking skills. Practical means focusing on solving problems of the real world. Wisdom is ability to look the problem from various points of views and to come-up with creative solutions. This is happening very little in schools today. We just do not ask children to have a look of the real world problems and ask them to search solutions to them, with help of the methods of different disciplines. For instance, how many math teachers are using global warming as the context or case in her teaching? Are we still working in the silos of different school subjects? I am afraid we are. Practical wisdom develops in a balanced practice of art and science.
Braveness (andreia) requires from one-side communication skills and from another side ability to take risks. It requires a lot of braveness to speak-up one’s mind, to share once opinion and to take part in public life. To do this one needs strong communication skills, ability to read and write, talk and listen – in several languages. Risk taking means ability to stand change and unknowingness. Many people see braveness also a critical factor in entrepreneurship.
Justice (dikaiosynē) naturally means skill to see the difference between right and wrong – to be fair and honest. It also means ability to do and support things that are rather constructive than distractive.
Sophrosyne (sōfrosynē) means moderation and temperance in everything. It means avoidance of excess in daily life, in public life, in business.
So, how one can “teach the virtues”? Actually it is simple. Virtues bloom and grown when you use them. Simple – just have good teachers.
” —Discussing 21st century skills: an interesting explanation of the old greek values..
21st Century Skills: The Virtues of Ancient Greece | FLOSSE Posse
