Is This Going to be on the Test?

What if students were given the opportunity to essentially write their own units combining social studies, science, and history? Would a student-led project spell disaster or success? This video documents a five-week, place-based learning project in Middlesex, Vermont, where classrooms were combined and teachers joined forces with local adults as students ventured out in the community to research various topics (ranging from "local legends" to "soil") and then present the results in teams. The project was apparently very successful: students were challenged and motivated, curriculum standards were met, and greater cooperation was encouraged between the school and the community. Divided into two parts, this student-produced video offers a 15-minute look at the process, as kids are shown engaged in various stages of the project, followed by an eight-minute pragmatic, how-to segment outlining crucial elements of the program. As a guide, however, this falls somewhat short without more information on the extensive field trip and community coordination that would be needed, or a more detailed look at creating a timeline. Still, the idea is innovative, and despite average production values, this warrants consideration by educators willing to challenge stale learning methods. Optional. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)