Genius Hour
Does your child have an interest but not sure what to do with it? Now they can develop their ideas. With a bit more structure than our Coworking class but just as much facilitation they will learn the steps to make their idea come to life.
What's included
8 live meetings
8 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. In collaboration with their instructor, every session, students will set and pursue learning goals beyond the classroom to create their final project.Assessment
Empowered learners will collaborate with their teacher to set meaningful goals, and track their progress through regular self-assessments. The culmination of their journey will be a final self assessment presentation showcasing their growth and accomplishments.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner - Advanced Level
Help students reach their full potential with Genius Hour, a unique program inspired by Google's idea of allowing employees to spend 20% of their time on personal projects. This approach encourages creativity and has led to amazing innovations like Gmail and Google Maps. In this class, students will work on a project of their choice for at least an hour each week. As they develop their project, they will also learn important skills in Project Management and Scientific Investigation. The teacher will act as a helpful mentor, guiding students in setting goals, overcoming challenges, and providing feedback. Students will choose their topics and collaborate with the teacher to set goals, monitor progress, and create their final projects. Format - Empowering Check-ins: In 10-15 minute sessions, students will share their progress. We will work together to solve problems and set new goals in a supportive environment. If time allows, the rest of the class will be dedicated to study hall activities. Image from Unsplash Nong Vang
Learning Goals
Learning to set appropriate project goals is the main learning goal. Students will also learn project management skills and scientific investigation techniques using open inquiry and project based learning approach.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Exploring the topic
We will explore topics and talk about resources the students can draw from. Goal: Deciding Your Passion
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Exploring the topic
The second week will be a "looking in" on specific area student is interested in to make the best decision.
Goal: Deciding Your Passion
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Start framework for project
Students talk about what they learned and what topic they would like to pursue.
Goals: Find resources, start project.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Resources and Goal Setting
Teacher and students talk about resources to help them pursue their goals.
Goal: Students set specific learning goals and decide final project display.
60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Education from Cape Breton University
I am Barbara, founder of a transformative Forest and natural learning school since 2012, offering personalized inquiry and project-based experiences in person and online, with a masters in education focused on sustainable learning.
My approach focuses on facilitating experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, problem solving skills for diverse age groups within both physical (Forest) as well virtual environments., while emphasizing teamwork between students who come from different walks life.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$159
for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
60 min
Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-13
2-6 learners per class