Flexible learning environments: KIPP Texas

by Heather Clayton Staker

KIPP Texas is transforming its schools from traditional classrooms to flexible spaces that let teachers reach and engage each learner individually, without adding to their teaching burden. The Flexible Learning Environments diagram, which you can see below, shows my interpretation of how.

You'll see in the "before" picture, students begin a 75-minute block with whole-group instruction, followed by individual practice. In the "after" scenario, students watch a Flipped video the night before, which unlocks several options for what they encounter in class the next day.

You can hear Michael Norton, manager of blended learning and academics at KIPP Texas, discuss flexible learning environments on the Ready to Blend podcast – Episode 16: Flexible Learning Environments, part 1 with Michael Norton.