Genius Hour
Inspiration. Passion. Innovation.
What is Genius Hour?
Genius Hour is a movement that allows students to explore their own passions and encourages creativity in the classroom. It provides students a choice in what they learn during a set period of time during school.
Students are provided a set amount of class time to work on their passion projects. Students are challenged to explore something they really want to learn about and create a project. They will spend several weeks researching the topic before they begin creating a product that will be shared with the class, school, or world. Deadlines are limited and creativity is encouraged. The teacher serves as a facilitator to guide students through the process and ensure they are on task.
Why Genius Hour?
I'm sure some are questioning why we are having Genius Hour and how it has anything to do with academics. Here are my reasons for openly inviting this time into the classroom:
- Higher-Level Thinking and Problem Solving Across Multiple Subjects - Students learn and use skills in literacy, numeracy, art, music, science, geography, technology, spelling, history, design, etc. These are vital skills that allow students to excel academically as well as in real life.
- Preparing for Life-Long Learning - Genius Hour is a great way for students to prepare for life after school. They have to meet deadlines, will encounter barriers that must be overcome, will show resilience and dedication to their project. Mistakes will be made, but learning from mistakes and finding solutions is all part of the learning; a very valuable life-long skill.
- Personalizing Education - Students get the choice of what they want to learn about or problems they want find solutions for. Students are in charge of their own learning. It is relevant and important to each individual.
- CREATIVITY! - Students' creativity is inspiring. It's amazing to see what students can come up with if given the opportunity!
- It's FUN! - Students enjoy working on their own passions and interests, and because of this, it is fun. Through this, students develop a love of learning.
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Maya Angelou
Genius Hour Live Binder
I have begun gathering resources for students to utilize during the process or duration of their Genius Hour projects. Check out all the different resources I've found and stay tuned for more!