Blog #3 Form to Function...

      Form should follow function - Simply stated but often ignored, a perfect question to ask,does form follow function, in regards to the structures of our school and how do we create "new forms".  In regards to time, I often hear teachers say they ran out off it, or they didn't want to start something new with the period ending eventhough the students were engaged. In regards to grouping, a younger student interested in environmental studies does not have opportunity to take the class because it is reserved for seniors and PG's. I have collegues who teach math but minored in Asian studies who would love to teach a history class. What is stopping our school from changing, fear, ignorance, tradition maybe a little of each?
     My school is in the best possible position to change and create a new version, especially as we are in the midst of the Strategic plan for our school. We are also a boarding school, which allows us to create a unique schedule, as students and teachers live on campus. For the first two years of High School students do not have choices on their classes besides art and music, why not offer more trimester classes and take an in depth look at areas they find interesting, have them create a class or choose a topic. In an independent school teachers do not need to be certified to teach a certain subject so having a math teacher take on a history class should be encouraged, if they have expertice in the area.
     Another aspect that schools needs to embrace is the virtual area. We are an international school, so the idea of connecting with schools in different countries to discuss their views on issues would create a global curriculum. We are fortunate to get the perspective of our international students but they only represent 21 countries, that leaves 175 other countries to connect with. The VLM are another way for our students to gain knowledge from experts, along with other virtual classrooms. This chapter  got me really excited about the what if's, the question than becomes how to gain support for change, I think that will be the biggest challenge.