Module I - Week 4: Wrapping Up Module I

   "If you build world class facilities, you will get world class students.  If you build prisons, you'll get prisoners." 

- Bill Strickland, Make the Impossible Possible

Module 1: Week 4

Welcome to week 4! This week our efforts will be concentrated on wrapping up our first learning module: Students as Learners. In addition, we will be adding to our "building a classroom environment" techniques as we read some fascinating articles about designing a classroom that enhances learning.

Take a moment to think about the environment in which you learn best. Consider its location, lighting, design, as well as what it feels like to be in that space. What words would you use to describe it? These are the words that you should have in mind when design your classroom.

As I reflect on the classrooms in my old high school, I can't think of one that I can remember being safe and comfortable in. I do, however, remember the concrete walls (which were bare) as well as the long rows of students desks. No wonder I didn't like being in school. 

How can we, as educators, create quality "learning spaces" that appeal to learning styles and have a theoretical foundation? What should a positive learning environment look and feel like? These are the questions I ask you to think about as we wrap up our first module.

Essential Questions:

• How can Ed theory be used to create an engaging an effective classroom activity/lesson?
• What are the most critical concepts from Module 1?
• How can educators create and implement a positive classroom environment?
  

Learning Objectives:

Apply Concepts (DOK level 4) of Module 1 by Creating (DOK level 4) a map of a classroom lesson/activity that contains the major components of the unit.

Critique (DOK level 3) the multiple ways to create an effective classroom environment.

Cite evidence (DOK level 3) from educational theory to demonstrate the connection between theory and practical strategies in the classroom.

Standards Addressed:

RIPTS: 3.1, 3.2., 3.3, 4.1, 4.4, 6.1, 6.2, 8.2

Learning Plan:

1. Forum Discussion Board - Please participate in this week's discussion by signing onto Canvas once on or before Thursday and a second time no later than Sunday. This discussion will concern Module 1 topics and #2 below.

2. Textbook - Please read chapters 5 and 6 in your textbook. 

3. Articles and Video: choose at least two

Schools Are Rethinking Classroom Design*

Study Finds that Well-Designed Classrooms Boost Student Success*

A Comfortable Truth: Well-Planned Classrooms Make a Difference
12 Ways to Upgrade Your Classroom Design
The Room Itself is Active: How Classroom Design Impacts Student Engagement

Classroom Design for Effective Instruction - What the Research Says
Classroom Redesign: Students Take On the Challenge

Master Classroom - Designs Inspired by Creative Minds
Makeover of Learning Spaces to Engage Students

TED Talk - Adora Svitak:

4. Module I Performance Assessment - Please click the following link to take the digital performance assessment for Module I. Module I Performance Assessment - Click Here Your assessment is due no later than 2/18.