Innovative Educators For The Digital World
Over the last 10 years or so, there has been a wave of innovative educators trying to turn the traditional school model on its head, developing 21st Century skills in learners. Whether it’s AltSchool’s personalised learning journey in the US (spoiler alert – it was sadly doomed to failure)1, Quest to Learn’s game-based school in New York, School 21 in East London, or the sustainability-driven ethos of the Green School in Bali, these pioneers have been trailblazers envisioning a future where learning knows no bounds. Even if it hasn’t always gone according to plan! 😖
Microschools are another interesting new trend that gained momentum during and post COVID2. Microschools are small learning environments for 5-25 students of mixed ages and grades. They use different teaching and learning models, such as personalised, project-based, or online learning, and can run in various settings, such as homes, churches, or offices. These small-scale educational institutions boost student-teacher bonds, cater to student interests and needs, and create a sense of community. All of which are fantastic enablers for building the skills our children need for the future.But they also face issues like regulations, access, equity, and quality. The Conflicted Parent isn’t convinced yet, but microschools are a hopeful trend in education, blending personalisation, connection, and innovation – especially for students who learn differently.
All the institutions above deserve a round of applause for their brilliant ideas and valiant attempts. However, perhaps more practical for most parents are those equally innovative educators supporting on-going learning to allow us to enrich our children’s school experience. You can find the Conflicted Parent’s Top 5 favourite (free) eLearning crushes here!
Additionally, endless wonderful organisations fund or run school programs, provide free resources and set up and fund global challenges and competitions to inspire our children – but parents must know that those resources are out there – and, crucially, engage with them. To help you get started, the Conflicted Parent has put together a list of currently open challenges.
I’m not suggesting you enter to crush the competition – that wouldn’t be very 21st Century would it? 😉 Enter for fun to see where it takes you! Maybe swap ‘Family Friday Movie Night’ for ‘Family Friday Creativity Night’? Dust off the little grey cells and get painting, coding, building, photographing, movie making, debating and problem solving like no-one’s watching!
The Conflicted Parent is committed to walking their own talk and you can find my experience of engaging with some of these initiatives on this blog.