School 2.0

"School 2.0 is a brainstorming tool designed to help schools, districts and communities develop a common education vision for the future and to explore how that vision can be supported by technology." (http://www.school2-0.org/)

To be inspired by a united vision for helping students is one of public education's greatest challenges. The founders of private schools (such as Steiner and Montessori) had very strong visions and beliefs for education and used these as foundations for their curriculum. People who join such school communities unite with firm and specific impulses. I see no such shared vision in the public school system. Understanding the value of a shared vision; the New England Association of Schools & Colleges accreditation process (among others I'm sure) requires the formulation of a school mission as well as mission-based expectations for student learning. Much focus is placed on all stakeholders sharing in the creation of a school's mission. My high school is in the midst of the re-accreditation process this year. Much energy was spent last year developing our mission; School 2.0 looks like it could have been a major focussing tool for that task.

In the 2.0 site's description, the term "Learning Ecosystem" immediately caught my eye (stemming from my interest in the environment). I'm excited by the idea that our leaders would give weight and validity to the learning that takes place outside the traditional four walls! This is an important aspect of the Learning 2.0 discussion. In New Hampshire such a conversation is taking place (I know it would be good if I could get a link to the NH dept. of ed. here) and the state is moving toward awarding credits for independent study experiences outside of school - overseen by a faculty mentor. The possibilities that this opens for personalization, engagement, and real-life problem solving are far-reaching.

The term Learning Ecosystem also brought to mind the term "Personal Learning Environment" (PLE) which I stumbled across in my new my exploration of the blogging world. (I will do my best to figure out how to add a link to that blog.) This is a concept I would like to explore further. I think it is an example of someone putting to words feelings that nudge at the school teacher's passion.