I had indicated in my first blog post of this academic year
that I would reflect and blog about the authentic learning experiences I
encountered in my community. I would like to start with two disclaimers. 1)
Authentic learning experiences can be encountered on a daily basis and I
certainly should not wait for a “special day;” in traditional school settings
we seem to create days with “special schedules” for fun, engaging and
educational endeavors. Yes, it is easier to write about these “special days”
however, if I take authentic learning seriously, I need to do a better job at
reflecting on authentic learning on any ordinary day. Simply put, authentic
learning should not be extraordinary. 2) I take no credit for the organization
and implementation of this Day of Play in the Flint Hill Lower School. The day was designed by our innovation department, an enrichment
specialist and our lower school librarian; it was flawlessly implemented by our teachers
and students.
The objective of the day was to design a toy for a classmate
taking into considerations the classmates interests. The work was done in the
morning, in multiage groups and pairs, using recycled materials. Items were
displayed and shared in the afternoon at an outside Toy Exhibit. This was truly
an authentic learning experience for students and teachers alike. It incorporated problem posing and problem
solving; incorporated the interests and needs of the individual students;
sparked collaboration; and fostered relationships among students based on
empathy and compassion. What a day of play it was! Here is a synopsis in
pictures and videos:
For the kick off of the day students heard from a app
designer whose hobby is creating educational, engaging, fun apps for children.
Students then went off to form their groups and pairs and
talked about different kinds of toys.
They interviewed a classmate to find out what toy s/he would
like.
A sketch is made and a prototype is developed.
Off they went to the store to find the needed materials.
Design creation and collaboration begin.
Testing is carried out.
Oops not sure what happened - will fix ASAP
Commercials are made.
Oops not sure what happened - will fix ASAP
Toys are carried to the exhibit hall.
Toys are shared.
This is the motorcycle for this super hero!
It was an exhausting fun filled day of authentic learning for everyone!
I hope you understood the process and sequence of our 2nd annual Day of Play at Flint Hill Lower School. I will soon share some reflections.
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