What we’re learning
Studio Classrooms
Modeling is a powerful adult learning strategy so it is not surprising that Abeo is getting more requests to set up and support studio classrooms. Also known as model classrooms, studio classrooms leverage precious professional development dollars as they help schools to grow the “wisdom in the room,” capitalizing on instructional strategies already in place but not yet common across classrooms. One of the reasons studio classrooms are so successful is that the model lessons take place on site, incorporating the contextual factors (such as demographics) that make the lessons very relevant for the observer. Studio classroom structures vary, but all incorporate model lessons for teachers, the opportunity for peer observation and collaborative conversation, and external coaching support that stresses independence and sustainability. If you want to build an adult learning system that expands the capacity of instructional coaching, adds dimension to lesson study, and capitalizes on teacher leaders – or want to develop these – let us know! We’d be happy to build a customized studio classroom model for your school.
High School Design Institute in Seattle!
Abeo is pleased to once again partner with Education Northwest in their annual Institute on High School Design and Improvement. Titled “From Structure to Instruction,” the two-day institute shares practitioner-designed state-of-the-art tools and strategies that have successfully transformed high school practice. Join us in our backyard (Seattle!) June 30th and July 1st as Abeo partners discuss our College Prepared Project and best strategies for effective professional learning communities.
How we think…
…Is how we work. Abeo’s organizing framework, describes both: our best thinking about improving student achievement and how we approach our clients. Depicted graphically as a triangle, we think sustainable gains require attention to each of the vertices – teaching, leading, and collaborating. So our work with clients involves customized support in in each of these areas: teacher learning, in the classroom and through surrounding professional development systems; leader learning through executive coaching, mentoring, and strategy development; and collaborative learning as we develop the necessary skills for accountable and productive collaborative practice. Always evolving, look for new details here and on our blog for a running commentary on what we’re learning about the work of improving learning and teaching and the tools that will lead to the results you want for kids.
