STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING
What happens when students drive their own learning?
They develop a growth mindset
They become problem solvers
They cultivate cool, geeky interests
They are more creative
They view mistakes as learning opportunities
They learn to think outside the box
They gain confidence, motivation through ownership
They learn to experiment
They learn project management
They develop iterative thinking
They become explorers
They are ready for the global creative economy
They become systems thinkers
They are self-directed
NO lectures. NO tests. NO GRADES. NO homework.
OUR APPROACH
HERO’s JOURNEY
We believe each child is on a journey. The Hero’s Journey is the foundation of our “Learning to Be” experiences at Acton. In their personal journey, each students will enter unknown territory, take on challenges, work with allies, and experience growth and transformation.
Every student’s journey is different. From the challenges they take on to the skills they acquire, each child will own their own journey.
Self-Guided, Personalized Learning focused on Mastery
Project Based Learning
Self-Guided, Personalized learning focused on mastery
At Acton, there are no lectures. No grades. No tests. No homework. No teachers.
We believe all students love to learn but they don’t like to be schooled. At Acton, learners move at their own pace to learn topics until they master them. Self-paced learning means students will move fast on certain topics and slower on others. Learners move at their own speed, not at the pace that a teacher believes students should move at. The intent is to ensure mastery, not assign grades. We believe in self-paced education with a focus on instilling a love of lifelong learning.
Project-Based Learning
When students are engaged in project-based learning, they become systems thinkers. The begin to solve problems through application of interdisciplinary knowledge. They begin to connect dots between the “subjects” they learn.
At Acton, STEM and other Arts / Crafts projects are part of our daily schedule. We also work on long 4-6 week projects, which we refer to as quests.
In addition to becoming problem solvers, students learn to take creative risks, practice project management, think outside the box, and become engaged in their own learning.
Contract of Promises
Students create and sign a Contract of Promises describing how each individual will act and the consequences for violating community norms.
GET INSPIRED
John Spencer: Seven things that happen when students own their own learning
Sugata Mitra: The future of learning - The amazing results when students can self-organize their own learning.