Imagine authentic enrichment opportunities paired with a method to allow learners to work independently. How might we develop independent learning practices without compromising the quality of instruction? Could we engage and motivate our students grow their ability to think critically beyond the base expectation? Using gamification and badges will help keep our students motivated. Providing open access to a high number of learning opportunities to allow for choice is important. Yet it is a focus on Inquiry that tells the story of how Spark, Set.. Go! came to be. (more…)

Some of the uneasiness I have with Passion Projects and Genius Hour (aka 20% Time)  is how unevenly it seems to be applied to student populations. It’s easy to understand why. Coaching students through an independent learning project of their design takes time, a resource that many teachers do not have to adequately devote to every student. As a result, a few lucky learners are the recipients of this extraordinary learning opportunity that has no rival. It seems that self-directed learning isn’t on the menu for a vast majority of our students, and I sometimes wonder if the students that need it the most might be the last to get it. (more…)