Because teachers have realized how important it is to provide children time to participate in creative pursuits, the concept of a “Classroom genius hour” has gained a lot of traction in recent years. This trend may be attributed to the rise in popularity of the “maker movement.”
Even if there isn’t a single, ideal approach to put this idea into practice, according to the six principles outlined below may be one way to increase the likelihood that the experience will be good for the kids as well as the teachers who are engaged.
What exactly is an hour of genius?
Students are given the opportunity to investigate their own passions and skills during a daily class period dedicated to this educational program. The concept that every student has the capacity to excel in at least one area gives rise to the concept that this time period should be referred to as “Classroom genius hour.”
During this period, students are encouraged to think in a way that is creative and original, and they are given the opportunity to do so. They have the option of working on initiatives that are in some way connected to their hobbies or interests, or they may generate fresh ideas for projects.
Students may significantly improve their creative abilities and ability to solve problems by participating in genius hour. It also gives students the opportunity to investigate other fields of interest, which may lead to the discovery of new skills and areas of interest. It has been shown to promote student engagement as well as student motivation, and it may also assist students in gaining a deeper understanding of who they are.
The following are the six guiding principles for doing classroom genius hour:
1. Purpose
The students have a right to know the rationale behind why they are being asked to participate in a certain activity.
2. Choice
The students need to be able to choose their own projects to work on during the genius hour. They should have the opportunity to choose something that piques their interest and encourages them to be creative.
3. Voice
Students have to be able to communicate their concepts and ideas to one another about their work. They should have some input into the decisions that are made on the course of their job.
4. Ownership
The students ought to have the feeling that they own their work from the very beginning to the very end. These is important for Classroom genius hour.
5. Passion
When students feel enthusiastic about the tasks they are working on, they are more likely to devote the necessary amount of time and effort to see those projects to completion. Students that are passionate about their projects will have a greater chance of learning and remembering knowledge connected to their topics.
6. Prior Knowledge
Students need to come into genius hour with some background information on the subject that piques their interest so that they may make the most efficient use of their time and make the most of the opportunity.
Conclusion
Teachers are able to assist kids in developing their capacity for creativity as well as their ability to solve problems when they use the six principles of Classroom genius hour. This, in turn, will help them become learners who are more involved in their work and who are successful. Think of this as an experiment to try out in your classroom if you are seeking for new ways to engage your students.
