Open School of Psychology - the new division of The Garden Association

The Governing Board of The Garden Association decided to establish "Open School of Psychology". 

What is the Open School of Psychology? 

It is an initiative for non-formal education, existing as division of The Garden Association. The school is not registered or accredited and does not exist under any law or regulations about education (and we intend that it will always be like this!). 

Conceptual framework of Open School of Psychology 

1. Purpose 

Open School of Psychology works in the tradition of Life-long learning concept.

As an institution for non-formal education its purpose is to develop psychological knowledge and skills at local, regional, national and international level. The school aims to present to its trainees the psychological processes and phenomena in people's daily life and to help them build competences in the filed of psychology through which they could improve their lives at any level.

2. Basic Principles 

• Learning by doing - the experiential learning, combining theoretical and practical approach for developing of knowledge and skills, lies at the center of School's philosophy and methodology. 
• Tolerance - respect for and openness to different cultures, traditions, and opinions. No violence! 
• Ethnic, Religious, and Gender equality - no discrimination! 
• Democracy - participation of the trainees in the decision making process regarding their education (for instance: choose topics for training, topics for discussion, and so on). 
• Community - sensitivity to the presence and needs of others, encouraging the spirit of togetherness as an alternative of selfishness.

3. Organization 

The Open School of Psychology works thanks to professionals who volunteer for the fulfillment of the School's basic principles. The main lecturer and trainer is Georgi Stankov. Additionally, guest lecturers and trainers will participate in the project too. 

4. Certification 

In order to response to the European trend for validation of the non-formal and in-formal education, The Garden Association will provide certificates to all students who successfully complete our courses. They will receive certificates signed by the lecturer/trainer/instructor.