One of the biggest
challenges we continue to face in education is the ‘teaching to the test’
mantra that we too often (whether on purpose or accidentally) seem to get
caught up in. We first determine what it is we want kids to learn and then we
design the corresponding assessment. Students spend time learning and then they
are assessed. In short time unfortunately, much of the information is forgotten
and the rate of retention is rather low. In this scenario, education is being
done ‘to’ our students rather than ‘with’ our students.
To ensure our kids
remember beyond the test, a strong curriculum built around innovation is
needed. This type of curriculum has three main components for students: voice,
choice and audience. When these three pieces are present in the day-to-day
instruction we deliver in our classrooms, we have a much better chance of
longer, deeper, and more sustainable retention levels.
Voice: Think about your
education... did any of your teachers ask your opinion on the structure of
learning or the structure of the assessments in your classes? Most would
probably say no. This is where we have a huge opportunity to give our students
voice in the learning structures within our classrooms. It’s this voice that
creates buy in and support for students and their learning.
Choice: We talk a lot
about empowering our students, but it’s not often that we give our students choice
in the learning process. Imagine a classroom where students are able to pursue
and engage in their interests as it relates to the bigger picture. Obviously
there are standards and learning objectives that need to be met, but except for
us, the educators, there is nothing preventing our students from addressing
these standards as part of something they are interested in learning more
about.
Audience: When kids
create, write, and design just for their teachers, they make sure it’s good
enough for their teachers. Here’s the thing, we don’t want our students doing
work that is ‘good enough.’ We want our kids doing work that is out of this
world. We want our kids sharing their genius with the world, and to do that we
need to give them an authentic and global audience.
So, my challenge for
you is to redefine your instructional model and empower your students to be
actively involved in THEIR education. At the same time, create ample
opportunities for your students to share their genius with the world. If you do
this, then kids won’t be learning for a test, they will be learning for their
life.