Best of both worlds

The French-American School of Rhode Island values the diversity of its students, teachers and community. Our two complementary Western cultures supplement the cultural and philosophical differences of one another, resulting in an exceptional approach to education. 

An outstanding combination

Both French "cartesianism" and abstract thinking and American pragmatism and creativity are reflected at FASRI. The French rigor and structure focus on intellect, while the more social, hands-on, American approach aims to make learning an enjoyable experience. The cultural differences complement each other by creating a dual reality that changes the students' perception of the world and opens their minds to a multidimensional awareness.  

In addition to cultural differences between the French and Americans, their education philosophies and purposes are almost complete opposites of one another, though both strive for humanitarian goals and have the best interest of the students at heart. Means for learning, the concept of knowledge, the role of teachers and even schools differ greatly in France and the United States and reflect two different societies and spirits. Our students are accustomed to the practices of their French and American teachers, and to the different ways they were respectively trained to teach. This comfort with different styles of instruction strengthens our students' adaptability and cultural understanding.

French philosophy

The French school system begin with the ideas of Jean-Jacques Rousseau and also encompass those of the 19th Century sociologist Emile Durkheim. Schools intend to promote the French Republic and awaken students to fight false ideas and think critically. The methods develop self-disciplined individuals who refrain from chaos and unruly desires. Knowledge shapes individuals, enhances the mind, prepares students for a profession, and helps them understand rules and laws. The authority of the teacher is institutional, their autonomy based on the necessary gap between schools, salvation for society, and the outside world. Schools adjust and adapt internally to external changes; only the best will succeed. Students are held responsible for their errors and schools are above accountability from a society that they are attempting to save. (c.f. Denis Meuret, Gouverner l'Ecole)

American Philosophy

In parallel, the American education is based on the beliefs of 19th century political philosopher John Dewey. Education is intended to improve democracy, empower and develop free and creative individuals, and provide confidence and spirit. Knowledge answers questions and prepares students for life. It is the provisional result of an experiment. Teachers' authority is functional, their autonomy based on the necessity to adjust to the individual needs of their students. Schools change to improve and reflect on the world. Everybody can learn. Schools are responsible and held accountable for students' errors. (c.f. Denis Meuret, Gouverner l'Ecole)