What strategies are trending around the world in classrooms?

DISCIPLINE WITH A DIFFERENCE

It’s called restorative justice and many schools in the US are adopting it to address indiscipline. These involve non-punitive measures such as mediation, community service or peer counseling. Critics of this approach charge that offenders may not be adequately punished and back in class too soon. But experts say if done carefully, restorative justice can cut suspensions and expulsions and improve behaviour. Parents also are fully involved and given a voice in the outcome.

MAKING THE GRADE

New methods of assessment have been developed by educators, concerned that the A-to-F and 100-point systems are unfair and demoralising. In the US, a standardsbased grading (SBG) system constantly evaluates students’ strengths and weaknesses, giving them multiple chances to demonstrate understanding, and eliminates “extraneous grades” such as homework and extra credit, according to Matt Townsley, a school administrator in Iowa who helped his district implement SBG.

Steve Lockard, deputy superintendent of county schools in Fairfax, says, “More traditional grading practices do not always allow for continuous improvement. A student, regardless of their subsequent achievement, is unable to reach an overall passing grade.”

PUTTING PROJECTS FIRST

Many schools across the globe are increasingly using Project Based Learning (PBL) to teach critical concepts because, advocates say, it excites kids, taps into a variety of learning styles, flexes different skills, and prepares them for real-world work.

MAKING SEATING SPECIAL

Tables at different heights, bean bags, rugs? While the research is not conclusive about flexible seating, many teachers in the US and UK report it improves attention, learning and behaviour and gets students excited about being in the classroom.

Variations on flexible seating practices — sometimes called ‘Starbucks classrooms’ — have moved to high school, and the concept seems to be growing in popularity.