This conversation explores the unexpected wins of Genius Hour, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity, executive functioning skills, and community building among learners. Educators share personal stories of student projects that exceeded expectations, the significance of reflection, and the transformative power of allowing learners to pursue their passions. The discussion emphasizes the need for a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and resilience, ultimately leading to meaningful...
This conversation explores the unexpected wins of Genius Hour, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity, executive functioning skills, and community building among learners. Educators share personal stories of student projects that exceeded expectations, the significance of reflection, and the transformative power of allowing learners to pursue their passions. The discussion emphasizes the need for a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and resilience, ultimately leading to meaningful learning experiences.
SHOW NOTES:
Key Takeaways
Genius Hour fosters creativity and passion in students.
Unexpected wins can lead to significant personal growth.
Executive functioning skills are crucial for project success.
Building community enhances the Genius Hour experience.
Encouraging risk-taking helps students develop resilience.
Reflection is key to recognizing student growth.
Transformative experiences can arise from student-led projects.
Students thrive when given a voice in their learning.
A structured approach can guide students through projects.
Patience and support are essential for student success.
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Passion and Skills in Education
01:40 The Power of Executive Functioning
04:41 Unexpected Success Stories in Genius Hour
07:57 Learning Through the Journey
10:34 Encouraging Risk-Taking in Projects
16:11 Transformative Project Ideas
20:22 Fostering a Safe Learning Environment
27:09 Engaging Student Projects and Validation
28:07 Adapting Projects to Meet Community Needs
29:00 Unexpected Turns in Student Projects
31:22 Building Stamina and Resilience in Learning
32:10 The Importance of Check-Ins and Reflection
34:13 Creating Timelines for Project Success
37:15 Reflecting on Learning and Growth
39:00 Empowering Students Through Real-World Projects
42:00 Strategies for Effective Reflection
47:06 The Power of Community and Connection
49:33 Final Thoughts on Implementing Genius Hour
Resources:
To learn more about Andi's Genius Hour Framework and book, please visit andimcnair.com/geniushour.
Special Guests
Laura Haselton
Catherine Augustine
Dyan Branstetter
Emily Frady
From Laura:
Skateboarding Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXKaeyS6AtA&t=5s
From Dyan:
Instagram Handle: giftedthinkers_excelResources:
To help with inspiration: Kids Do the Most Remarkable Things by Great Big Story: https://youtu.be/or0tspzzI-4?si=QNYlsiwWYk4wMr2b
Teaching Slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1P986nPUAVB25CuNlVbdwyUZ19gD_cSLPjmglVLBt_ns/copy?usp=sharing
Reflection Slides student template: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ngIdXiD4QmHATW64rz-kAA4PFTX0LpS6kC-B2c_8siA/copy?usp=sharing
From Emily:
The curriculum I mentioned: Encounters with Archetypes: Integrated ELA Lessons for Gifted and Advanced Learners Grades 4-5
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/edit/10.4324/9781003234890/encounters-archetypes-tamra-stambaugh-emily-mofield-eric-fecht-kim-knaussI know you've talked about the
6 Thinking Hats: https://www.debonogroup.com/services/core-programs/six-thinking-hats/
Instagram: @emily_frady
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