This video highlights the critical interplay between pedagogy, architecture, interior design and engaged learning. The Sydney Centre for Innovation in Learning (SCIL) has been developing new spaces for learning across campus. The model recognises the importance of independent learning skills, seamless access to mobile technologies, multimodal learning, theories of learning and spatial awareness in engaging students at all levels within the school. The video captures a broad spectrum of learning activities on an ‘ordinary school day’ at Northern Beaches Christian School.
SCIL: Follow the Journey→
/The Journey is a curriculum platform designed for Stage 3 learning (Years 5 & 6). The curriculum platform is developed around a grid based on an understanding of the work of Bloom’s taxonomy and Gardner’s multiple intelliengences. This platform enables teachers to integrate different curricula into a self-directed ‘Journey’ for the students. While some questions/challenges are mandated in order for all students to meet state based outcomes, students are also free to launch further into deep learning based on interests and passion. The program depicted in this video has a significant science focus - ‘The Ministry of Science’. The whole curriculum has been overlaid with skills based work linked to the ‘Habits of Mind’ program, as well as having a simulation game approach as the point of entry. All students are striving to be scientists within the Ministry of Science, having being ‘employed’ initially as specimen processors.
Video of The Quest @ SCIL→
/The Quest is a curriculum platform designed for Stage 4 learning (Year 8). The curriculum platform is developed around a grid based on an understanding of the work of Bloom’s taxonomy and Gardner’s multiple intelliengences. It draws from the science, history and geography curricula. The Quest platform enables teachers to integrate different curricula into a self-directed ‘Quest’ for the students, which in itself enhances the work undertaken by students over the previous five years. Teachers have very intentionally placed the curriculum into a framework that is as much about 21st century learning skills, as it is mandated state-mandated content. SCIL/NBCS draws from the work of www.p21.org as it seeks to create engaging and relevant curriculum experiences for students in a learning continuum from primary years, through middle years to senior years.
Really exciting to see furniture created with the assistance of @UFMsolutions @daviegordon spreading into other schools. In these two photos @UFMsolutions took furniture and learning concepts from conversations and developmental work at NBCS/SCIL and created this fantastic playground for learning at Bradfield College, Sydney. Why would you ever buy another old paradigm desk and chair again?
It is part of the vision of SCIL that all schools shift from the factory-model of schooling to a 21st century multi-modal learning, enhanced by the use of mobile technologies. Come and visit us :)
Some more photos in the SCIL Building - Year 7 in action. One comment here - that bears no connection to any student in any of these photos - but it is fascinating watching some of the students with ADHD manage their situation very effectively by choosing furniture that allows for a level of restlessness that does not disturb anyone. Such an interesting quote too “I like working on the pods because teachers can help me, rather than tell me off”. If we chose different furniture and different spaces, we maybe would have a lot less ritalin prescribed for students.
