Project 24
A constant challenge faced by teachers is how do you best teach 30 pupils in a class when each individual has different levels of existing knowledge and understanding. We are confident that pupils' learning will be accelerated if we can get pupils to spend more time working just beyond their current level of understanding.
We have therefore launched Project 24, which has the goal of increasing pupil attainment by making the learning even more personalised and by allowing the teacher to spend more targeted time with the pupils. The Project 24 team is looking to fulfil this goal by using blended learning, which is the combination of classroom-based teaching with computer-based learning. Blended learning encourages personalisation through both the e-content, which adapts to the needs of the students, and, most importantly, the small group instruction that is enabled by the technology.
Many different models of blended learning currently exist and after considerable research (see reading list below), including a study trip to high performing schools in the US, we have settled on two models that we will pilot at different points this year. According to the Innosight Institute's taxonomy for blended learning models, our two approaches are known as the 'flipped-classroom model' and the 'flex model.'
- The Flipped-classroom Model: the core content delivery is shifted from being done at school to being done at home the night before, via video. This model enables the teacher to spend more time in class addressing specific student questions and knowledge-gaps. Furthermore, an online worksheet each night enables the teacher to identify these gaps before the start of class.
- The Flex Model: the core content is primarily delivered online, allowing students to progress at their own pace and move onto the next topic when mastery is achieved. The teacher provides tutoring and small group instruction, targeted at the needs of each individual student.
Piloting these two models of blended learning is made possible by a class set of Google Chromebooks, which will enable the students to access the internet and the assigned online content 24 hours a day.
Throughout Project 24, we will be working to quantify the impact that these models of blended learning have on student progress. As a result, the team will be conducting surveys of students, parents and teachers to understand how blended learning is impacting student achievement. Additionally, we will be closely monitoring student progress.
Reading List