Much research in the field of pedagogy has called into question the traditional organization of a classroom. The teacher who faces his students, an interventionist model inherited from past decades, now seems outdated. The emphasis is on refocusing education at the level of the pupils. The island class is a very contemporary way of rethinking the school. Here we present some of the many advantages of this type of organization.
The island class promotes group pedagogy
The block class divides the students into small groups of four to six students on average. The goal is to promote dialogue between children throughout the proposed activities. This arrangement is adapted to the active class which requires the collaboration of the pupils for the learning. By discussing and exchanging ideas, they mutually enrich their thinking. Collaborative work is essential for many fields, in literature, art and science. Each pupil has his own perception of the different areas of knowledge. Interaction facilitates the understanding of a fact thanks to the confrontation of feelings.
A placement by affinity for a better organization
In the traditional classroom, it is customary to place the students in pairs. Some classes opt for individual placement. In any case, it is not uncommon to see students often turn to seek contact with other congeners. The result is a regular disorganization of the class. By placing the children by affinity with the class in islands, a positive dynamic emerges from each group. By adding a points system that rewards islands that achieve the objectives set, we establish healthy competition. However, groups should not be frozen to avoid compartmentalization and the risk of communitarianism.
Easier distancing in the event of a pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic will have taught us that it is sometimes necessary to preserve social distancing to avoid the spread of germs. With the island class, it is easy to guarantee the necessary meter of distance between the pupils. They don't lose the feel of the classroom. It is indeed essential to feel good to want to go to class. The Program 3.4.5 tables implemented by IA France make it possible to guarantee the necessary gap between the pupils. Health measures apply as much to a global pandemic as to a local epidemic (influenza, gastroenteritis, etc.).
The island class refocuses teaching on the students.
The need for modularity within the classroom
The island class is effective in energizing the students. However, it should be kept in mind that some activities require other organizations. Story time for children therefore requires a U-shaped or amphitheater arrangement. The evaluation periods generally involve an individualization of each place. It is therefore necessary to set up a flexible class. Modifiable in a few minutes, the configuration of the school furniture in Program 3.4.5 makes it easier to switch from the islands to other layouts. The lightness of each element facilitates its movement by the students. You will therefore have the choice of the configuration according to your teaching activities.