We’re huge advocates of alternative routes to learning, and making it relevant to all. Maths might be one of the biggest challenges; its rigid principles seemingly essential to understanding. The problem, says US educator and self-confessed “maths lover”, Dan Finkel, is that underestimating maths is leaving a gap in our everyday and future lives. Dan…
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This interview from EdSurge is a really interesting insight into how developers are championing game-based learning. Expanding and diversifying learning experiences is so important to us here at IM and iOi. Through initiatives like our Lab Liftoff: Game and Code event in the Easter Holidays, children can experience playful technology, allowing them to be the…
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At iOi and IM, we’re big advocates of expanding the scope and remit of learning and play. It’s easy to fall into the routine of seeing the two as distinct; a separation we often carry into adulthood. Here are some practical tips from EdSurge for increasing engagement by bringing the playground into the classroom and…
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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…
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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 –…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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“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 gap…
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