In this week’s class, we took a visit to the Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry.
Upon arrival, my first thought was, “where are all the students,”. As we continued to walk to the meeting room I could overhear teachers and students conversating as peers. I began to realize this school was similar to that featured in Most Likely to Succeed. I was interested in the school and the presentation was very informational and well presented.
The school’s approach to education was very realistic and appears to give students preparation for the university and real-world experience. It had students working in the environment best suited for their learning, which is not always provided in public schools. Having a learning space that is beneficial to a student’s learning is important but I do think it is also important to have some form of natural life such as plants. This would be a beneficial addition as it was said to us that certain students dealt with anxiety and depression. Plants, natural lighting, and fresh air can help with these conditions, the location is downtown so it is important for students to access nature also.
The school’s inquiry approach to learning is spectacular as it allows for all four domains of the circle of change to be engaged; this is generosity, independence, mastery, belonging. Students help one another with projects, they are free to explore their interests, the freedom allows them to explore a subject as much or as little as they choose, and all students are excepted no matter their needs.
I do not believe the lack of structure may be beneficial to all students, some students might find it a hard transition from other forms of schooling. I also am curious as to how this form of schooling caters towards students interested in trades. I would be interested in teaching or at the least gathering experience in this form of school.
This is a link to the school website!
Thanks again!