Teachers from St Andrews Public School, Leumeah Public School and Lomandra SSP particpating in the 2015 Joining the Dots Partnership program, came together to discuss the innovations being explored in the classrooms around them. Discussion of 21st Century Learning pedagogies and strategies to accommodate all learning styles were focussed on in areas both inside
and outside of the classroom. Upon reflection, three main areas were chosen to take into account the different spaces used in education today; Flexible Learning Spaces, Digital Spaces and Outdoor Spaces. Below is a summary of the findings in each area with a link to a page that details the research, resources and conclusions of the project.
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FLEXIBLE LEARNING SPACES"For a long time, school has been endured rather than experienced by students as “a series of exciting explorations of self and society” (Aronowitz, 2004)
As the profile of our learners and educational practices change and adapt in line with 21st Century pedagogies so to can our classroom spaces. Classroom design needs to facilitate communication, collaboration, computing as well as inspire creativity. Flexible Learning Spaces are quality learning spaces that allow students to move freely between learning areas suitable for the task they are completing. |
DIGITAL SPACES"Growing evidence demonstrates that digital games can be used to advance standards-based content mastery in literacy and math, develop a deep understanding of STEM concepts and build critical 21st century skills that are essential for preparing youth for success in a global and digital marketplace."
(Joan Ganz Cooney Center, 2014) The digital environment is one that is as natural to our students as reality. Utilising different digital environments effectively can not only benefit teaching and learning in many ways but is essential in addressing the processes by which our students learn in the digital age. |
Outdoor spacesOutdoor learning spaces provide opportunities for real life and meaningful education for 21st century learners. Outdoor activities and lessons encourage academic skill development, creative and critical thinking, teamwork, collaboration and interpersonal communication skills. Students are more engaged in outdoor learning opportunities through stimulation with their natural world and learning to take risks in a safe environment. Combining curriculum with active learning improves the personal and social wellbeing, as well as academic achievement of students.
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This website designed by Julie Sivell, Rebecca Roberts, Shelby Windon and Samantha David as part of the South Western Sydney Joining the Dots partnership program 2015.