Are You In or Are You Out?

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Education, and specifically teachers, has existed in a comfortable box for a very long time. With the rise in development of technology this box has been challenged and expanded but overall still remains comfortable. Technology has slowly been incorporated into the classroom but some teachers are still unsure of how to use it effectively. In most classrooms, students are still learning the same ways they have been for years. However, there are two innovative strategies to education that could destroy this box completely, or at the very least help teachers to get out of it.

Palma, Marcela. (2006, September 24). 

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The first is virtual field trips. For as long as I can remember field trips has been a very contested idea. Where should we go? How much will it cost? What if something happens? What are students learning? These are just a few examples of questions that teachers must answer in order to get any sort of field trip approved. But what if students could experience so much more without ever leaving the school? With the option of virtual field trips the trips can be specifically related to what students are learning in any particular subject. Additionally, students can experience the trip at their own pace to ensure learning occurs. During field trips students are rushed through the tour and do not always have the opportunity to take in all they are experiencing. Virtual field trips provide the opportunity for students to take their time and go back to particular parts if necessary. Teachers can also create webquests that require students to complete an assignment that goes along with the virtual field trip. Incorporating this type of learning and experience within the classroom will help teachers to use technology effectively and step outside the box they have been in.

The second innovative strategy is genius hour projects, or otherwise known as passion projects. These projects allow students to explore their passions and interests and share them with their peers. Students are given the freedom to choose their own topic for these projects and are provided with set times to work on them. These projects encourage creativity and innovation itself within the classroom. They also provide students the opportunity to learn about their interests and develop their passions for their futures. Rather than teachers pouring information into students’ minds, genius hour projects allow students to choose what they want to learn about. I have the opportunity to create my own genius hour project, which I am very excited to begin! I will be exploring the different hiking trails that the Niagara Region has to offer and discover my own preferences in trails. This is not something that I could have ever learned confined to a classroom. Imagine the learning that can happen when students are given this freedom.

Therefore, both of these innovative strategies are great ways for teachers to step outside the box education has been in. Do not be afraid to try new things. Teachers can get very comfortable in their routines but take a leap of faith. Trust your students to be creative. Not only will they surprise you but you will also be helping them develop passions for their futures. Invest in their learning in new ways. So I ask. Are you staying in the box or are you going to jump out?

To drive these ideas further check out this video about Caine’s Arcade. His passion is truly inspiring. As teachers we should encourage our students to strive for this level of passion but this can only be achieved outside the box.