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The Kumon Method of learning was developed over 40 years ago in Japan by Toru Kumon, a high school math teacher whose son was struggling with second grade arithmetic. As an educator, Mr. Kumon realized that a strong foundation in the basics was needed for success in higher level math. With that in mind, Toru Kumon created a series of worksheets for his son to do after school. Through daily practice and a commitment to mastering each concept, his son was able to solve differential equations and integral calculus problems by the time he was in the sixth grade.
The Basic Principles of the Kumon Method
Today, there are more than 2.5 million students enrolled in the Kumon after school programs. Mr. Kumon's early work with his own children still form the heart of the Math and Reading Programs. Learning, he believed, occurs most efficiently when :
- the level of material being learned corresponds exactly to the students' level of ability;
- the rate of progress is determined by the students, not by the teacher; and
- the material to be learned is organized into a naturally coherent, logical progression.
Individualization is the cornerstone of the Kumon Method. Students succeed and build confidence when they are given challenges that are just right for their current ability. All students, whether they come to Kumon to catch up or to get ahead, begin with work that is comfortable for them, and advance at their own pace. There is no pressure to compete with those more advanced, nor is anyone held back to wait for those less advanced.
Students soon learn that it's their own performace that determines their rate of progress. This encourages them to take individual responsibility for their work and for their success.