300: Shifting the Education Landscape: Moving Beyond Knowledge Acquisition
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Guest
John Camp (he goes by Camp) is Head of Teaching & Learning at the New England Innovation Academy, where he oversees the development of systems to recruit, hire, support, and evaluate teachers. He also supports teachers in developing and implementing the curriculum. He's been a leader and a teacher at various schools throughout his 29-year career. His experience includes English and writing classes and interdisciplinary courses such as “The Art and Physics of Time Travel.” At St. Mark’s School, which bestowed him with The Trustees Chair and the Kidder Faculty Prize, Camp served as the Director of Experiential Learning and Associate Director of The Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning. His pedagogical mantras include, “I aim to teach what cannot be Googled” and “I expect you to work hard, so I work hard.”
Summary
Our conversation examined how the New England Innovation Academy is shifting the landscape of 6-12 education toward integrating various learning styles and innovative teaching methods.
Competency-based assessment was discussed as a promising alternative to traditional tests, emphasizing gauging students' mastery of skills and practical knowledge.
The conversation went beyond academics, highlighting the growing importance of student-centered learning and fostering social-emotional development as crucial aspects of education.
We also explored the practicalities at the New England Innovation Academy, delving into student workload, school policies, and their innovative practices.
A central theme emerged: education is no longer solely about knowledge transmission. Instead, it is vital to nurture well-rounded individuals and promote personal growth through student-centered instructional approaches. This discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving education landscape, where innovation and student success are the driving forces shaping the future of learning.
Social Media / Referenced
New England Innovation Academy - https://neiacademy.org/
About Jeff
Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government.
Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness.
Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.
Show Credits
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