Most schools offer “History,” and many provide “Study Hall.” What if we offered “News?” Various points of entry for current events and modern journalism could be explored. By nature, the topic is transdisciplinary and PBL-rich. I can imagine weaving in every discipline. In “Studio Hall,” learners of all ages could use time to create, not just to complete (Study Hall’s focus).
One of many reasons I feel drawn to Unboundary involves their intentional practice of using version software designation to signal purposeful growth in the company. As the world and surrounds change, Unboundary adapts and evolves. Currently, the team designates itself “Unboundary 6.5.” More than just the suffixing of a number, the process under-girding this practice promises attention to change – kaizen – as a constant. Culture is transformed when a community knows that the version number should change…will change. What if schools used version software designation to signal such purposeful change?
Related post: “JH 2.11”
Because I work a lot in the domain of Project-Based Learning (PBL), I participate in a number of conversations and ideations about great, future PBL ideas. I never cease to be amazed, though, at how quickly many adults see the PBL-design process as adult-centric. We neaten the mess of education-industry learning too much, and we too often exclude systemic inclusion of students in these early design stages. What if we expected and empowered students to co-design curriculum?
* Screenshot of just two related tweets summarizing some of Pat Bassett’s comments
in a plenary session at 2012 NAIS Annual Conference.
What if our standing homework assignment was to spend time with family, friends, and personal passions? Time to work on our home, not just time to extend school into the place called home. When we think of the balance we want in our own lives and in the lives of our children, might such a practice actually advance us all? What might students choose to do…with time?!
Related posts:
I find a number of amazing educators struggle with the concept/implementation of PBL (high-quality, transdisciplinary Project-Based Learning). I believe some of that struggle is related to habit. I believe some is related to saying, “I teach English” (or math, science, etc.), instead of “I teach children,” or “I lead learning.” If you teach, how do you answer, “What do you teach?”
