10.1 Schools That Work for Kids

 


In the video, Schools that work for kids, Eric Sheninger talks about how schools are no longer teaching students how to become successful in the real-world. Where schools are still functioning in silos - subjects are taught as stand-alone information - in reality, life presents problems that are not just "chemistry" or "math" problems, but an amalgamation of these concepts.

Sheninger focuses on the fact that schools are continuing to function based on the status quo and rules which stifles student creativity and passion. He suggests that by giving up control and putting trust in students, instructors can better promote student learning. His suggestions for doing this include allowing students to use social media and their own devices in the classroom. 

Administrators and instructors also need to develop student learning spaces that are conducive to modern learning. An example of this idea is found in Carol Lautenbach's, Lessons in equity and opportunity from the 'third-teacher,' where students become the 'third teacher' and influence how the room will be arranged and used. In the photo below, there are rugs for students that they can use to decide where by whom they will learn.



Further, instructors should listen to students to determine how they learn best. By doing all of these things, instructors can bring schools and real-life together.

References:

Lautenbach, Carol. (2023, May 24). Lessons in equity and opportunity from the ‘third teacher.' School News Network. https://www.schoolnewsnetwork.org/2023/05/24/lessons-in-equity-and-opportunity-from-the-third-teacher/  

Sheninger, E. (2014, November 3). Schools that work for kids [Video]. https://youtu.be/mwrLVvORugw 

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