Making Schools Work: Bringing the Science of Learning to Joyful Classroom Practice

If we teach in the way that human brains learn, both students and their teachers will thrive! This book aligns evidence from the learning sciences on how and what students need to learn with classroom practice (pre-K-12). It demonstrates, with hands-on examples, how a change in educational mindset (rather than in curriculum) can improve student outcomes on both standardized tests and a breadth of 21st-century skills skills. Written collectively by classroom teachers, administrators, parents, and learning scientists, this book shows readers how to co-construct and reimagine an optimal educational system. Making Schools Work offers three case studies of schools, including a statewide system, that are all realizing a 6 Cs approach to learning focused on collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation, and confidence. The text documents the ever-evolving implementation process, as well as outcomes and the ongoing work of stakeholders. Readers can use this resource to create an education for all children that is culturally responsive, inclusive, effective, and fun.

Book Features:

• Helps educators teach in the way that human minds learn.
• Jointly written in accessible language by teachers, administrators, parents, and learning scientists.
• Offers hands-on ways to reimagine classrooms without investing in new curricula.
• Puts teachers in the driver's seat, reminding them of why they teach.
• Provides culturally responsive, inclusive, effective, and fun strategies.
• Offers children the possibility of learning the skills they will need for 21st-century skills success.