Our Version of Mastery
The teaching model that we have in our heads shapes what our classroom is like. Every teacher has his/her own version of what "mastery learning" or "the flipped class" is. Here's our abbreviated take:
- Mastery is Required. It's OK if a student doesn't "master" the concept right away! It's not OK for the teacher and student to move on anyway as if they don't care about learning! If students get it, they get it. If students don't get it, they WILL.
- Grading is Standards-based. All instruction and learning activities should have a target to shoot at. The students take formative and summative assessments called "standard checks" that inform the teacher AND student whether they are reaching the goal of mastering that particular standard.
- Learning is Fun. We strive to provide technology-rich activities that involve choice and creativity. Learning is awesome, and who doesn't love autonomy and freedom? Each vodcast must be interesting to watch, and they should include outside video if at all possible!
- The teacher doesn't lecture. Not all knowledge must come from the teacher. They don't know everything, anyway (at least this one doesn't)! The teacher could be thought of a the "Facilitator of Learning" rather than the "Disseminator of all Information".
- Vodcasts are available. Instructional videos on all concepts are available to students at school and at home (WHEREVER), at any time he/she is ready to learn the concept (WHENEVER), on computers, DVDs, iPods, or iPads (WHATEVER).
- It's more than vodcasts. Students learn in various ways, not just through the instructional videos. Projects, labs, and explorations rich in creativity and collaboration should be present in the mastery learning classroom. These can be outstanding ways to foster deep, meaningful learning.
- Students work in-class. The teacher is available during class time to work with, guide, and build a positive relationship with every student. Homework might not ever be necessary.
- Learning is Collaborative. Natural groups form with self-pacing. Students work together as a team, not as competitors.
The Prezi that follows is how we introduce the concept of "Mastery Learning" to our students.