We’re always interested in reading about new approaches to learning. Here, some teachers in the US are questioning homework. We don’t think there’s one right way, however, there are important things we can learn from new ideas. It’s vital that we constantly assess how we think about independent learning, and that we don’t miss any…
Read More
Today on Imagination Matters, we welcome Imogen Lycett Green, Prize Director at the Betjeman Poetry Prize. Imogen has shared with us an article that she found particularly meaningful on the importance of teaching poetry. We’re pleased to share her introduction to the article: Some poems are easy to comprehend, but poetic imagery and metaphor –…
Read More
New year, new thinking? Time for an interesting read from NPR on personalised learning. Controversial for some, revolutionary for others, it’s about students determining their experience. However, whether it’s the future of learning or not, it leaves some questions unanswered. See what you make of the debate. Personalised learning is based on going at your own…
Read More
Before the storied days of summer are forgotten, are there lessons we should be taking back into the classroom? Removing time and achievement pressure can prove a powerful tool in student engagement. A school in America’s mid-west has discovered how shifting the paradigm means we don’t have to leave summer holidays at the door. Middle…
Read More
As our thoughts turn to the new academic year ahead, it seems obvious that schools need to create an inspirational environment for young people. And not just to increase learning; for us, making children feel safe, happy and engaged is a goal in itself. So why is the practice so far behind the thinking? Sharing…
Read More
Watch a new MakerSpace case study from us here at the iOi about the importance of imagination and maker skills. Children in primary school are embarking on their first experiences of education. Furthermore, as Alex Gingell, Marlborough Primary School’s Deputy Head Teacher says, they often do this as part of a diverse group, for whom…
Read More
“It’s what Leonardo da Vinci did”, say the STEAM advocate trio of scientist, researcher and professor. It does neatly explain the essential inclusion of humanities, languages, music, design and new media (to highlight a few) into scientific education. Think of the ‘A’ as the glue between the elements, allowing teachers and students to bridge the…
Read More
We love talking about those inspiring learning in young people, so we were particularly excited to read this article about the London teacher named best in the world earlier this year. Andria Zafirakou is an art teacher with an unconventional approach; a departure from the more common strategy of teaching core subjects with rigorous structure…
Read More