What are the ingredients to optimal learning?
Does the best recipe include the traditional, mixed-focus schedule of math, reading, writing, science, and social studies with a sprinkling of art, music, gym, tech, and library? Or does the best recipe for learning look different than that?
Would children's brains become more flexible and facile if art and music were main subjects in the curriculum--a daily dose?
Or is best learning the interdisciplinary, project approach that blends many disciplines together around a specific question, topic, or need?
What is the process of optimal learning?
Do we leave the room and time for approximations as children get closer to their learning goals? Do we allow time for hyperfocus when it comes to learning something new? How much time do we leave for questions, conversation, discussion, and exploration during the learning process?
What materials support learning best? How do we use those materials to invigorate learning tasks and practice?
This summer I'll be taking a researched approach to learning. I'll be thinking about the process, tools, and ingredients of optimal learning endeavor? Right now though, I'm thinking about the underlying structures and supports that exist and creating questions to lead my research.
