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E12 - Physical Space - Helping or Hurting?

PBL and Spaces

This episode focuses on the concept of the classroom as the "third teacher" and how to adjust physical space to create a more collaborative and engaging learning environment for Project Based Learning (PBL).

Key takeaways from the episode:

  • Dixie Elementary School transformed its learning environment and saw a significant increase in its state score. Their success stemmed from embracing the idea of the "third teacher," which recognizes that the physical space can be just as important as the teacher and other students in facilitating learning. They redesigned their space to include tables, chairs, and meeting spaces that encouraged student-centered and collaborative learning.
  • The National Model High Schools in Indiana and Florida also exemplify the importance of collaborative spaces. Features like booths, openable glass walls, and combined teacher planning areas encourage teacher collaboration and flexible learning experiences.
  • Teachers can make adjustments to their classroom spaces, even with limited resources, to enhance the learning environment. Ryan suggests three key steps:
    1. Flexible Work Zones: Create designated spaces for different learning activities. For example, arrange desks in rows for individual work and in groups for collaborative projects. This helps students understand expectations and prepares them for the day's learning objectives.
    2. Student Ownership: Empower students to contribute to the design and organization of the learning space. This can involve activities such as planning flexible zones, presenting their ideas, building prototypes, and developing norms for different learning modes.
    3. Visible Thinking: Make the learning process visible by creating spaces that allow students to move, collaborate, and present their work. This can include using podiums for presentations, rearranging furniture for different activities, and utilizing shared spaces like media centers or large group instruction areas.

Call to Action:

  • Take a picture of your classroom and share it on social media, tagging Magnify Learning. Use this opportunity to showcase your successes in creating collaborative spaces or to seek feedback and support in transforming your classroom.

Other points discussed:

  • Group contracts are crucial for establishing structure and expectations during collaborative work.
  • Sir Ken Robinson's work on changing educational paradigms highlights the need for different approaches to learning environments.
  • The importance of not working in isolation and seeking collaboration with other educators to improve PBL implementation.
  • The concept of "Big Mo" or momentum is discussed as a key factor in successful PBL implementation, emphasizing the importance of building on successes and continuing to move forward.

Looking ahead:

  • The next episode will focus on active learning strategies and how to build upon the momentum created by establishing a collaborative learning environment.

Resources

Magnify Learning Facebook and Instagram

Magnify Learning - www.magnifypbl.com