Learn Like a Pirate-Part 1

After much anticipation on my part I am finally sailing on my pirate adventure with the book written by Paul Solarz called Learn Like a Pirate!  I got through section one of the book which talked about the student-led classroom and what it is and isn't.  Paul does a great job of setting up the rest of the book.  I'm really looking forward to reading more.

For those teachers who like "control" in the classroom, this will certainly challenge your thinking.  He writes in there that "a student-led classroom is one in which students make decisions and choices throughout the day without consulting the teacher."  He does caution though that while in a student-led classroom that does take place, there is still guidance and oversight by the teacher.  Phew!  That made me feel better!

As he writes about experiencing the benefits of a student-led classroom, he mentions a lot about knowledge retention.  He says that "children learn best by doing, by questioning, and by figuring out solutions on their own."  He references the graphic on the right in his book, called The Cone of Learning.  This was one of my biggest takeaways in this section of the book for me.  It just makes sense that if this is the way students learn best, why not do it.

Anyway, I can't wait to read more from his book. As I continue sailing on my pirate adventure in the book, I'll share more insights.

By the way, I would also highly recommend the book Teach Like a Pirate by Dave Burgess.  I read that book last summer and found it very inspiring.

Until my  next port of call, mates!

Serving Him!