There’s a revolution happening in education today. Schools are beginning to adapt their pedagogy, their methodology and even their physical space to support and foster hands on, problem-based learning. In this model, students work on group projects that require applying several disciplines at a time, using information from several sources and mediums – not just textbooks – interacting with their teachers, guidance counselors and real-world professionals.
Transforming what we think of as a traditional industrial-age school into an active 21st Century learning environment doesn’t require tearing down the old building and starting from scratch.
By using the existing building footprint as the foundation, educators can create a career-centered school, by first focusing on the career-centered library.
Steps to Creating a Successful Career-Centered Library
Provide a stimulating space
Create responsive, dynamic learning spaces that can accommodate collaboration space, along with instruction and discussion. Use flexible walls, furnishings, and technology to change the shape and configuration of the space as needed.
Interdisciplinary learning neighborhoods
Group relevant subjects together within an area of the library. It makes it easier for kids, even in kindergarten, to experience how these disciplines interact and impact each other. Neighborhoods should represent the entire world around them, creating a seamless flow to house support spaces specific to that neighborhood’s learning, such as:
- How things work
(Mechanics, Athletics, Physics) - How people change the world
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) - How things grow
(Biology, Agriculture, Chemistry, Health) - How I express myself
(Music, Arts, Theater, Language) - How I work in teams
(History, English, Politics)
Celebrate student hands-on projects
Today, information is immediately accessible and available with a few clicks on a cellphone, laptop or tablet–anytime, anywhere. The need for a room filled with rows of books and a quiet place to reference them is virtually obsolete. So, breathe new life into that location by creating a space where student projects are displayed, technology can demonstrate “hands-on” experiences.
Connect local business mentors to students
Provide “hands-on”information on local businesses with a direct connection to a career mentor.
Encourage career goals to motivate students
The library can be a safe, personalized learning environment that will support this innovative learning model. Studies indicate that with active, connected learning, kids are more motivated and productive, learning easier, retaining more, and are better prepared and focused. They will graduate with the real-world skills they need to succeed – whether that means moving on to college or heading directly into the workforce.
Informal supportive atmosphere
Supporting I.T., media, guidance and business centers, a cyber café and project showcases, the library becomes the heart of the entire school, where students can gather, share, work and explore together, and the community can engage with the school.