paradise unplugged

 I saw this article on Edutopia and it follows on from that discussion I had last year with regards to renovating the 20th century classroom so that it is better for 21st century learning. 

The idea cropped up again in recent conversation this time with regards my St4 Core for 2008.  I want to teach them for the 21st century BUT, as you know, there are a number of ‘must-do’s” in place that I have to dance around. (not sure if its the “tango”, the “cha cha” or a beautiful “Viennese waltz” … no, no, of cause … it HAS to be the twist!!)

I have the summary of ideas below. I have in mind that I will set this as a task for the students – Problem Based Learning style. Together we’ll redesign their Core classroom. Who knows, with any luck, we’ll have 4 designs and will be able to rearrange the deckchairs each term! So will you have a look and make some recommendations about how to approach some parts of it with them?

SIDEBAR: 10 Ways to Out think the Box

1. Discard the mental model: Remember that the classroom “box” exists not only as a physical place but as a mental one as well. Determine to get rid of an outdated idea.

2. Assign a group project: Have your students research school design to figure out an alternative way to furnish the box.

3. Develop an “activities matrix”: Decide which of the eighteen learning modalities (search for that term on our Web site to find the list) can be reasonably accommodated in the classroom spaces.  (I haven’t been able to find these & have sent them an email to ask. Failing this I can use the skills development ideas & syllabus outcomes I already have for the class)

4. Soft is good: Make sure the plan includes soft seating — beanbag chairs, cushions, a couch, and upholstered chairs are all worth considering — for a less rigid feel. 

5. Pretest the design: Using graph paper and templates for furniture, examine the various ways the room can be arranged to facilitate different modes of learning.

6. Raise funds, get used furniture, seek merchant donations: Develop and implement a plan to raise money for new furniture, or (better still) approach local corporations and other businesses for donations of their used furniture that matches what your desired plan calls for. Ask your local home-improvement store to donate paint and equipment to build display boards, shelves, windowsills, and so on.

7. Make it green: Use this project as a conscious exercise in environmental responsibility by choosing indigenous materials, connecting with outdoors and nature (if possible), and expending minimal resources.

8. Do it yourself: If students build it, they will love it, take care of it, and feel the satisfaction of passing a new environment on to future classes.

9. Down with walls: If you have a bit of renovation money, take down some walls to facilitate team teaching, create social space, and break out of corridors.  (oh yesssss!)

10. New space, new practices: Let your teaching style, and the way students learn, take advantage of what you have created.