Learning can take place anywhere, not just in classrooms. Many schools and teachers create learning environments that explore the use of time and space in creative ways. The integration of areas of learning and technology also have opened the door for teachers and schools to approach the use of time and space in creative ways – ways that adapt to students’ needs and interests.
Although the learning standards are described within areas of learning, there is no requirement for teachers to organize classrooms, schools or instruction in this manner. In effect, the Ministry of Education defines the “what” to teach but not the “how” to organize the time, space or methods to teach it.
The focus on personalization and the flexible structure of the curriculum support the configuration of combined grade classrooms. Classes of students of more than one grade provide opportunities for teachers to develop a mindset that sees all the students as a group of learners with a range of needs and interests. Multi-grade programs should find a comfortable fit with the curriculum.
The Langley School District has been exploring options in terms of changing learning environments to support 21st century learning. Find below articles and videos that discuss the why’s, what’s and how’s of flexible learning environments:
https://www.edutopia.org/blog/flexible-seating-student-centered-classroom-kayla-delzer
https://www.edutopia.org/practice/flexible-classrooms-providing-learning-environment-kids-need
http://www.edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2017/01/k-12-schools-embrace-anytime-anywhere-learning
https://www.edutopia.org/blog/no-grade-is-too-early-flexible-seating-john-s-thomas