History and Philosophy of the Multiage Community
As we began preparing for our multiage classes in the nineties, our team recognized the need for first hand, site-based learning experiences. The staff development on brain research provided by this district supports these concepts. Each year we have a year long theme in the multiage community that encompasses all aspects of the curriculum and helps children make connections to the real world. Our site visits help the children share a common frame of reference as they learn more about a topic, address questions, and discover answers. We work with the guides at places we visit before we go. This helps us to be sure that the content is age appropriate and interactive. Site visits provide the foundation for the learning that occurs in the classroom.
Learning Principles from Research
Classroom Design
Effective Learning Takes Place When Students:
Learning Principles from Research
- We learn best in a safe environment.
- We learn in different ways and at different speeds.
- The brain strives to make connections and find meaning.
- We truly understand something when we demonstrate it to others.
Classroom Design
- Children sit in study teams at tables.
- Each study team shares materials.
- A focus on creating a safe, familiar environment.
Effective Learning Takes Place When Students:
- Are actively involved in their learning
- Want and need to learn
- Have time for decision making
- Are excited about what they are doing
- Have choices
- Take risks
- Have a community of support
- Share their learning with others
- Work with other students
- Feel good about themselves