Intrinsic motivation, or rather, a lack of, is a problem with a lot of kids. Whether it be because of a fear of failure or just a lack of ambition, kids aren't really encouraged to go searching for information just for the sake of learning. There is always a purpose to why they are doing it and our time is so structured. We need to let our minds be creative, we need time to explore, we need to learn how to learn for the sake of learning. This is how we become lifelong learners. I found the following image on Google. It kind of defeats the purpose of the idea of the creative mind, but being able to apply the idea to a standard, perhaps persuasive writing or presentation skills, maybe we could justify pulling this into our time we spend at school.
Great post, Patty! I was also interested in this, and had the same concerns, especially with my student teaching in 3rd grade, I am not sure how that would look in younger elementary, but I really want to see it work. I definitely agree that this is something that I want to try at some point, because it really teaches the kids to enjoy learning!
ReplyDeleteHi Patty,
ReplyDeleteI 100% agree with you when you say, "it's important to give our students some designated time to work on what they are passionate about." Passion is what drives people. I the students aren't passion about their work, is it going to be their best quality? I know when I was in high school I have more effort and time into classes that I was passionate about. Great statement!
Thank you for posting this Patty, I enjoyed reading your insight on the Genius Hour idea. I was also intrigued by this concept and had some questions about it as well. The fact that students are able to choose whatever topic they want baffles me since I will be teaching strictly math. I wonder if by structuring it to make students learn what they want as long as it pertains to the unit being taught at the time or just math in general affects the whole concept of the Genius Hour?. How far is too far for structuring the Genius Hour? It is a great concept though and I am all in for it. Like you said, it is a great way for students to be creative and learn. The picture is also a great representation it!
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