The New Classroom Style--Needed Now!

Rick Chromey, one of the best Christian thinkers I know, just sent me a link to this article about Generation Y: http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/why_gen_y_is_going_to_change_the_web.php

Very intriguing from many angles, but the one that intrigues me, of course, is what are the implications for the Christian learning environment and children's ministry in particular?

The article states: "They're Plugged In: The term "digital native" applies to most Gen Y'ers. Those in Gen Y grew up around computers, the Internet, mobile phones, video games, and mp3 players. They are web savvy multitaskers, able to watch TV, surf the web, listen to music, and talk or text on their phones, often performing several of these things at the same time."

And, yet, when I think of the existing lesson structures in many Christian environments, I can't help but think of a monotone Ben Stein droning on and on about something listeners have tuned out long ago.

We have to change! The classrooms of the near-future must mirror the multi-tasking world of children. They must be more like a computer monitor with icons for kids to choose from (choice!) and engage with (interactivity) and have fun with (enjoyment). Kids must be in the driver's seat--instead of the teacher. And I mean completely and totally--not some pretend arena where the teacher throws kids a bone of choice every now and then but is still very much the lesson plan deliverer.

We're digging deep into what this looks like here at Group. And it's exciting! I think because it's so new, I'm at a loss for language--what's this called? Is anyone else doing this well? I'd be grateful for help in tagging this innovative learning environment--that hasn't yet come to life. Any thoughts?

Comments

[Larry Shallenberger]

Great link!!!! Yeah, Rick!

Chris, would the "sandbox" metaphor that's used in the video game world fit the new curriculum world. I suggested that term in the article I just send you.

Sandbox video games present children with a world or universe to explore and manipulate at their own whim. (Traditional video games have levels that have to be conquered one at a time, in order. Children have to live out the software designers "plot." Not so in the sandbox.)

I'm struggling with knowing what this will look like as I was trained on outlines (Hook-Look-Book-Took). But even the word outline has LINEAR built into it.

Can't wait to see what Group reveals. And Hoping that strong teaching training materials come with it. Our teachers will need to be completely re-tooled to pull this off.

[Chris Yount Jones]

Cool, Larry!

And I have to confess that I learned the "monitor" metaphor from your article. As always, you make me think in new ways!

Can't wait for everyone to read your article in the Sept/Oct 08 issue!

[Glen Woods]

Nine years ago, I would have scoffed at this, mostly because of my pre-digital background. Now, having lived out web community for almost a decade, I recognize the need to explore relevant delivery systems for younger generations with completely different ways of thinking, living, being.

The notion of multi-tasking is true, but I do believe there has been some research done on the consequences of it. So I would approach this enthusiastically, but advisedly, recognizing that innovations sometimes come with unforeseen costs.

As for educational methodology, I think there could be value to user driven delivery systems, so long as we are careful not to cross the line of "truth is what you make of it yourself." After all, it is not too big of a leap to move from user selected options in learning modalities, to user selected options in truth claims. I realize this is not at all what you are promoting or saying, but I am just making the point that some will choose to go there. Perhaps moving from a "professor" model to a mentor model would be helpful. That is to say, moving from a strictly information dump to a leading others on the journey model.

Good post. As always, I am challenged. :)

[Larry Shallenberger]

Chris,

I wonder if the Good Shepherd Curriculum doesn't have elements of this type of learning.

[Janet Sallis]

In thinking of ways to describe this thinking, I reviewed that last few minutes of my life here on the fabulous interwebs. :)

Hyperlink- following one item of interest that leads to another, and another, etc.

Network Utility- think "Facebook" meets Sunday School

Aggregator- collecting bits of information, news, and opinions in one location for easy viewing.

All in all, children are becoming intuitive learners. This means that they follow their interests (links), think in themes (anybody seen a 4 yr old in the middle of her Princess theme?), and want REAL interaction (not simulated interaction).

Those are just my immediate thoughts in response to your post.

I'm still processing my thoughts on the article. Hopefully, I can come back and post them. :)

[Chris Yount Jones]

Wow, Janet! This is such a great way of capturing what I was trying to say! Yes! And I love the terms you use. Keep thinking! You're making me think now!
Chris

[truevyne]

I've been teaching children in the style you describe for eleven years now. I would not, could not turn back to being the teacher droning on while the children wiggle, squirm and tune out.
My assistants and I prepare a banquet of God's Word and allow the Holy Spirit to direct the children to the work. There are no toys in the room- just shelves lined with intentional, spiritual, and developmentally appropriate
materials carefully chosen to allow the children to experience God for themselves. It's such a beautiful thing.

[Chris Yount Jones]

That sounds so wonderful! What age group are you ministering to?

[truevyne]

Dear Chris,
This last year I had 3 year olds to 12 in the same peaceful room during the evening service at our church. I've always just one the young ones or older, but never together, so I couldn't believe how flawlessly it went.