Dogs in Learning: An Implementation of Human-Canine Synergy in Education

Abstract

This paper substantiates a holistic approach to the human-canine synergy for classroom use. It is suggested that at the interface between human needs and canine’s response/role are combined the therapeutic abilities of the interaction concept (i.e., provide affection and comfort to children), the assistance skills of the relationship concept (i.e., perform specific tasks to aid children in their school life) and the determining capabilities of the bonding concept (becoming an instructional vehicle in teaching various subjects). Within this framework, the paper presents and elaborates a new educational approach termed Dogs in Learning (DIL). By using trained dogs, this approach helps students to achieve their educational objectives by performing a series of interaction, relationship and most importantly bonding activities. It is used in teaching the curriculum contents of the K-5 levels at the American Community School in Athens (ACS), which is applied by students in a meaningful and fun way.