One of the core tenets of the Montessori approach to education is enabling children to self-direct their educational journey. Montessori teachers observe their students closely, guiding them to appropriate content and enabling them to build knowledge via engagement with a variety of materials and methods. Teacher observation and connection with students is essential. But when school shut down last March, the teachers at Oak Meadow School, a Montessori school in Littleton, were no longer able to be hands-on with their students. They worried that remote learning wouldn't allow them to guide and work closely with their students, and that students wouldn't be able to benefit from social connections with each other. The solution? Cisco Webex rooms.
Using Cisco Webex videoconferencing in their classrooms has allowed Oak Meadow's teachers to teach and engage with their students, and students to connect with each other. Instead of "remote learning", Oak Meadow students and faculty experience "blended learning". Some students are in class, some are at home, but all are able to interact real-time. The Webex whiteboard in each classroom allows teachers to draw, make notes, design, and present, while students share in the experience. Notes are saved for future reference and study. During class, remote students can engage and collaborate with other remote students or with students who are in the classroom, via high-quality video conferencing. Remote students do not have to have special equipment; Webex can be downloaded and used on a phone, tablet, laptop or desktop. Every classroom is furnished with a large Webex board and audio system to ensure high-quality video and audio interaction.
Head of School Jay Scheurle says the new Webex system "has helped enormously in our goal of helping students feel like they are still part of one school community." Students are connecting, exploring common interests, learning, and building relationships outside the school environment. The "blended learning" approach at Oak Meadow School enables this expanded ability to engage, in contrast to the limitations of standard remote learning. Plus, teachers are continuously trying new approaches with technology, testing new ideas, to create the best experience for students.
To learn more about Oak Meadow School and the blended learning environment, request admission information or schedule a tour and information session.
Oak Meadow School is an independent school inspiring children from 15 months through 8th grade. Oak Meadow School is rooted in the child-centered Montessori philosophy, which fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and cultural awareness while nurturing children’s spirits. A diverse community of life-long learners, we cultivate confident, independent, and compassionate human beings by providing the tools and experiences needed to embark on rich, meaningful journeys as responsible citizens of the world.
2 Old Pickard Lane
Littleton, MA 01460
978-486-9874
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