Charlene Martin
Snapshot
Modern Classroom
I think this grant will open doors to blended learning options as well as curriculum design that is more centered on student inquiry and possibly even involves project-based learning. Last summer, I signed up for the free course on the Modern Classrooms website as I was looking for a way to address the shift to online learning. I completed the initial coursework, but I could not justify spending the money on the full program, especially not knowing the uniform requirements my district would have for virtual instruction. I know the model would provide the structure to design instruction with my basic goals in place, and I feel that the Modern Classroom Project places an emphasis on empowering students in their learning goals and growth. I have followed Kareem Farah for some time on social media, and I share much of his teaching philosophy, especially in regard to allowing students time and space to work toward mastery of skills and being responsive to student needs. Honestly, though, I have five preps in any given school year, and I am quite intimidated by making this shift. I know I should start with one course and work my way through; however, when I am so passionate about changing the way we are meeting the needs of today’s students and making necessary changes in education, it’s very hard for me to pick one course at a time. I feel that all kids deserve these changes across the board. Sometimes my enthusiasm moves a little too quickly for practical implementation. I would love the guidance of educators who have made this shift themselves and know the challenges that lie ahead. I am hopeful that this program would help me design the kind of curriculum I know my students need to be more engaged in an educational process they feel is meaningful to them.