A Soviet teacher recognizes the difficulty of transforming educational systems and the tendency to revert to dogmatism. Cautions against teachers uncritically adopting current pedagogical fashions. Insists the individual teacher's personality remains the primary instructional influence. Applauds efforts to democratize teacher-student relations.…

Describes the teaching-upbringing complex (UVK), a new type of Soviet school that attempts to deal with raising and educating children in an integrated manner. Stresses combining required subjects with students' special interests to encourage student achievement and teacher involvement. Concentrates on the development of self-expression and…

Discusses changes in the Soviet school system that have given teachers greater voice in determining how they will teach. Suggests that understanding, kindness, and concern will foster a love of school and learning. Argues against abandoning compulsory schooling. Credits perestroika with making it possible for teachers not to have to lie to…

Explains nondirective or pupil-centered teaching, an alternative to traditional education in the Soviet Union. Uses Vygotsky's area of proximal development to envision teaching methods that anticipate and promote higher development levels. Stresses humanistic approach, involving students and responding to individual needs. Also proposes in-depth…