In a traditional classroom all the students are doing the same thing at the same time. When viewed in this simplistic form, its easy to see how many problems, both academic and behaviorally develop. In addition, the teacher is talking and the students are listening (hopefully!)Shift your thinking to a class where all the students are engaged in various self selected activities, discussing and developing deliverables which showcase their understandings. You've just stepped into the asynchronous classroom.
The changes are dramatic, students have a choice and a voice. the teacher listens instead of lectures.
Structural adaptations:
Weekly Menu: create a tiered list of classroom activities for a set amount of time. I like to use one week.
Level #1
Level one activities help the students to construct knowledge base and may include the video portions of the curriculum. Some basic practice may be included as well as opportunities for one on one direct instruction if needed.Level #2
Provide independent activities such as labs, question sets, blog posts, self created quizzesLevel #3
Includes formative assessment and projects
Standing Desk
Now a full year into my "standing desk" experiment I can't belive the insights I've gained about the physical set up of a classroom. The private nature of the teachers desk creates a fortress mentality where students feel unwelcome. By removing this piece of furniture, the classroom becomes more inviting and accessible. In addition, not having a localized workstation encourages me to be more mobile. Utilizing a laptop instead of desktop allows me to move about the room without missing other tasks traditionally completed at the desk.
What are your thoughts?
What I'm describing is a dramatic change in how the classroom looks, feels, and operates. What are some techniques you could use in your learning space? Are there pieces that you'd like to know more about? Are there any aspects that you vehemently are at odds with?