The Holistic Goals of Jewish Education

Abstract

n this chapter, Noam and Kress bring to the fore a theme that has been present in many of the previous chapters, namely, the need to expand our horizons beyond the cognitive. The goals of Jewish education are holistic, encompassing behavioral and affective learning outcomes, as well as cognitive. The authors begin by articulating a rationale for the importance of a holistic approach, and then discuss affordances provided by Jewish education for addressing outcomes in multiple domains. They then discuss the applicability of social and emotional learning theory and practice, with particular focus on a Developmental Domain Theory , which posits four intersecting areas of development (action, assertive-ness, belonging, and reflection). They recommend that Jewish educators employ a more systematic and intentional approach to promoting and assessing outcomes in this area, and conclude by discussing the possibilities and challenge in doing so.