H-Week8

== =Welcome to Week 8! In preparation for class next week, please complete the following tasks:=


 * // Each of you individually will complete the following in preparation for group discussion/sharing on October 18. //**

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 * // __Task 1:__ Do an Internet search on "effective learning environment." Choose a resource that you feel is a good one. This can be any type of resource (video clip, article, website, learning module, research report, podcast, webinar etc..) Add your resource to the Effective Learning Environment Page (click on this link). //**======

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 * // Note: Make sure your resource has not already been posted/shared (no duplicates). You may use other search terms (i.e. learning environment, k-12 learning environment, setting up a learning environment, 21st century learning environment, effective classroom design, learning environment designs, effective school environments). //**======

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 * // __Task 2:__ Define “effective learning environment” in one sentence (simple terms). What are the characteristics of an effective learning environment? //** (Come up with a minimum of 5 bullets.) Post your definition and your characteristics on the discussion board. ======

**// __Task 3:__ Given the four interlocking structures (ch. 4) that are fundamental to options schools have for implementing dynamic curriculum and instruction; //**

 * ====== Schedule (long and short term); ======
 * ====== Grouping patterns of learners (institutional and instructional; ======
 * ====== Grouping patterns of professionals (multiple affiliations); and ======
 * ====== Space (both physical and virtual), ======

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 * // conduct an analysis of your school environment in each of these structural areas. //** Think in terms of how well your school is structured for the ultimate goal of **__creating an effective environment for learning__** (78) and takes into consideration **__how best to support engagement on the part of your learners__** (75). ======

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**__Task 4:__** Use the to conduct an analysis of your school in terms of the four structures. For each of the structures, list the elements of the school that are effective at supporting the implementation of dynamic curriculum and instruction and the elements of your school that hinder the implementation of dynamic curriculum and instruction. ======

__ Things to think about: __

 * ====== Is your school designed to serve your students? (Think about WHO your students are.) ======
 * ====== What is your school’s function? Is the school designed to support this function? ======

**__Task 5:__** Respond to the following questions and bring your responses with you to class on Tuesday, October 18th.
= = =__Questions:__= = = =**According to Hayes, the interplay between the four structures determines how effectively we can upgrade our curriculum. The four structures work together and can be separated only for the sake of discussion, but in practice they are, indeed interdependent. Arguably, a pivotal reason why schools have difficulty functioning is because decisions regarding any one of these factors are made in separation for the others (pp62). In designing a school environment, we can consider a wide range of options for each component, but we need to match these program structures with the actual needs of students (pp. 62). The four structures are totally intertwined, mutually dependent, and systemic (pp.77). Any new versions of schools must bring the four structures together (pp.77).**= = =
 * 1) =**//Do the four structures of your school (per your table) appear to be interconnected or are there disconnects? For example, are there elements within one structure that counteract or conflict with another structure or other structures? Give examples to support your response.//**=
 * 2) =**//What are some quick changes your school could implement to move towards a “new version” that better supports 21st century learning?//**=
 * 3) =**//What are some more difficult changes that your school could implement to move towards a “new version” that better supports 21st century learning? What are the obstacles to making these changes?//**=