Saturday, July 14, 2007

A Woman's Reach Must Exceed Her Grasp, Else What's Heaven For?

Okay, these were supposed to be two additional poll questions for the sidebar, but we just ran slap out of time. You might want to consider / discuss them anyway.

2. What should an administrator expect to see and hear as he/she walks into a learner-centered classroom? Choose the two most important to you.
*“Virtual classrooms” in use
*Students actively engaged in meaningful, real-world tasks.
*Integrated technology used in authentic situations, not just “cool toys to play with.”
*Students using critical thinking skills to learn how to learn—”I may not know it, but I know how to find it.”
*Group work with common goals
*Students are up moving around, not just at their desks—a first impression might be of controlled chaos
*Teacher walking around / facilitating, switching gears as group needs dictate
*Student groups working on different activities; everyone is not doing the same thing at the same time
*A variety of technologies being used—computers, overheads, calculators, digital cameras, etc.
*Something not listed here (please add a comment to the main blog text)


3. What does a learner-centered environment look like compared to a teacher-centered? (physical layout)
*Desks grouped together, not just in rows
*Flexible layout—tables and desks can be moved
*Student work on display
*Supplies and tools openly available, not hidden in locked cabinets
*Laptop computers and other mobile technology in use
*Centers in use
*A range of areas available for free choice or signup—a comfy couch, a book corner, a presentation area, a listening / recording area, etc.
*Some other item not listed here (please add a comment to the main blog text)

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