As a Science teacher, I work in quite sterile environments. Our Science labs do not really have any features that allow for creativity, apart from a few pin boards to display posters or collaboration beyond the workbenches. Due to the inclusion of workbenches around the outside of the room, there isn’t much room for the creative arrangement of desks to allow for students to experience a collaborative environment without the intrusion of a Bunsen burner gas jet or a sink!
In order to allow this collaboration to take place, I changed the set-up of the desks to try to create pods. Unfortunately, due to the space size, I was unable to create pods of various sizes as I would have liked. This would allow students to work together in small groups as well as bigger groups or even on individual tasks if they so wished.
To deal with the lack of creative space, I have started using the windows and window markers to allow the students to share their knowledge and help to consolidate what they know. Because there is only one wall of windows which is broken up by the workbenches, I have requested for a large sheet of perspex to be installed along the brick wall in the classroom. This will provide more room for the students to collaborate and create. This idea needs to go through our Business Manager though and I have no idea how long it will actually take to come to fruition!!
References:
- Burgess, D. Teach like a pirate: increase student engagement, boost your creativity, and transform your life as an educator.
- Razzouk, R., & Shute, V. (2012). What Is Design Thinking and Why Is It Important?.Review Of Educational Research, 82(3), 330-348. doi:10.3102/0034654312457429
- Seidel, V., & Fixson, S. (2013). Adopting Design Thinking in Novice Multidisciplinary Teams: The Application and Limits of Design Methods and Reflexive Practices. Journal Of Product Innovation Management, 30, 19-33. doi:10.1111/jpim.12061