QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

The Unschooled Mind

How Children Think and How Schools Should TeachBy Howard GardnerPower Point by Alexis Nelson

Gardner’s Assumptions

• “Even when school appears successful [it] typically fails to achieve its most important missions.”

• Gaps in education could be abated by structures similar to “medieval apprenticeship” or “children’s museum”

• Goal of teachers is to produce student who is, “Disciplinary expert, who can extend skills and understanding in new ways.”

*Tables seat 2-3 people each and are large enough for each individual to have his own personal space while simultaneously being a member of the circle

*Circular orientation of tables enables seminar style class where eye contact and direct are encouraged*Circular shape also encourages “democratic” ideal in classroom where teacher and students all on “same level”

What A [High School Social Studies] Classroom Might Look Like According to Gardner

Windows to allow fornatural light in classroom, which studies have shown improves mood and boostsproductivity

Multimedia Screen to integrate web/film resources

Whiteboard for lectures and presentations

Corkboard (or similar material) for ease in hanging student material

“Teacher, educate thyself!”

Three Core Questions:• Regarding your ideas of apprenticeship, what are your

thoughts on using computers, with their remote-access anything, in the classroom?

• Considering the “trickle down” theory from economics, how can we hope our government, typically quick to act without first acquiring “genuine understanding” on issues, would be able to pass down educational reforms that will help to create “disciplinary experts”?

• What would your ideal high school Social Studies or English classroom look like?