I believe that through the teaching of the Italian language and culture we can help students to become more aware of themselves and to express themselves in a better way.
A humanistic approach can create a solid background for a good communication between teacher and student, enhancing the student's learning experience and concept acquisition.
Particular from "La Scuola di Atene" one of the most famous paintings
by the Italian Renaissance artist Raffaello.
It depicts Platone, on the left, and his student Aristotele, on the right,
as they study, walk and discuss philosophy.
We can find many articles and studies that promote a humanistic approach to teaching.
I'd like to mention the work of Lev Vygotsky, an outstanding Soviet psychologist. His important contribution concerns the inter-relationship of language development and thought.
"His work establishes the explicit and profound connection between speech (both silent inner speech and oral language), and the development of mental concepts and cognitive awareness.
By acquiring a language, a child is provided the means to think in new ways, and gains a new cognitive tool for making sense of the world". (source wikipedia.org)
