Highlights

The chapter showcases various educational practices and approaches that prioritize student engagement, real-world application, and the development of agency. It highlights the need for a shift in educational systems to better serve the needs of learners and prepare them for success in the world.

Such as:

• Learner-centered: The chapter emphasizes the importance of focusing on the learner and designing educational systems around their needs and interests. Learner-centered approaches, such as those found in Montessori and Reggio Emilia schools, prioritize student engagement, hands-on experiences, and interaction with peers.

• Project-based learning: The chapter highlights the effectiveness of project-based learning in engaging students and making their learning more meaningful. Authentic projects with real-world purposes help students retain knowledge and skills and apply them in practical contexts. Examples of schools that excel in project-based learning are mentioned, such as High Tech High, One Stone, and Iowa BIG.

• Self-directed learning: The chapter discusses the importance of developing students' self-direction and problem-solving abilities. Schools that foster self-directed learning empower students to take ownership of their education, collaborate with peers, and pursue solutions to real-world challenges. The skills developed through self-directed learning, such as time management and project execution, are highly valued by employers.

• Competency-based learning: The chapter highlights the limitations of traditional time-bound learning models and emphasizes the need for competency-based approaches. Competency-based learning focuses on students' mastery of skills and knowledge, moving away from memorization and de-contextualized assessments. It emphasizes the application of knowledge in authentic contexts and promotes purposeful learning.

• Community-embedded learning: The chapter emphasizes the importance of connecting students to their communities and providing opportunities for meaningful engagement. Schools that adopt community-embedded learning involve students in projects that address real needs and allow them to contribute to the well-being of others. Examples are given from One Stone and Iowa BIG, where students collaborate with organizations to make a positive impact.

• Agency-oriented education: The chapter emphasizes the development of students' agency, which includes their confidence, skills, and ability to pursue their desired outcomes. Future-focused schools prioritize the development of agency by involving students in the design of their learning, engaging them in real-world projects, and providing mentorship and feedback from community partners.

• Authenticity and real-world impact: The chapter emphasizes the importance of authentic learning experiences that have a genuine impact on students and their communities. Schools mentioned, such as One Stone and Iowa BIG, engage students in projects that address real needs and provide tangible solutions. This approach helps students see the relevance of their learning and fosters a sense of purpose.

• Reflection and self-assessment: The chapter mentions the significance of reflection and self-assessment in the learning process. Students are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths and areas for growth, and assess their progress towards desired outcomes. This reflective practice supports metacognition and helps students develop a deeper understanding of themselves as learners.

• Community partnerships and mentorship: Future-focused schools prioritize community partnerships and mentorship opportunities for students. By collaborating with organizations, businesses, and community members, students gain real-world insights, guidance, and feedback. These partnerships provide valuable mentorship and networking opportunities that enhance students' learning experiences.

• A Shift in our teaching paradigm: Competency-based and learner-centered approaches require a shift in the traditional teaching paradigm. Educators are called upon to redefine their roles as facilitators and guides, supporting students' self-directed learning and helping them develop essential skills. This shift involves creating learning environments that encourage exploration, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

In the chapter, Dr. Unger also offers:

• Examples of schools and networks: The chapter highlights several schools and networks that embody the principles discussed, including Big Picture Schools, Expeditionary Learning Schools, New Tech Network, Summit Public schools, Acton Academy schools, and more. These examples provide inspiration and demonstrate the possibilities of future-focused education.

• A call for broader implementation: The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for broader implementation of these educational practices. It suggests that current educational systems do not do enough to engage students in authentic learning and empower them to contribute to the world. The chapter encourages educators and policymakers to embrace these principles and create learning environments that foster student agency, real-world engagement, and meaningful impact.

• Examples and resources: The chapter provides numerous examples of schools, networks, and projects that exemplify future-focused education. It offers a range of resources and references for further exploration, including websites and organizations that support learner-centered, project-based, and competency-based approaches.

• Historical examples of learner-centered education: The chapter mentions historical figures such as Maria Montessori and Loris Malaguzzi who championed learner-centered approaches in education. It highlights their influence in establishing Montessori and Reggio Emilia schools worldwide, which prioritize hands-on experiences, interaction with the environment and peers, and personalized learning.

• The role of educators in learner-centered education: The chapter emphasizes that being learner-centered does not mean being hands-off. Educators play a crucial role in noticing and observing learners, understanding their interests, motivations, and abilities, and providing guidance and support to facilitate their pursuit of knowledge and skills. Educators are encouraged to help students design their own learning experiences.

These additional highlights further underscore the chapter's focus on community engagement, learner agency, project-based learning, competency-based approaches, and the holistic development of students. These principles collectively contribute to a comprehensive and forward-thinking educational framework that aims to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.