In a rich example of student-produced journalism, the Santa Barbara Middle School Teen Press interviews educational innovator Sir Ken Robinson backstage at his UCSB Arts and Lectures appearance on February 21st. These well-spoken young people ask Robinson to design a learning place of his dreams. In this 3-part interview, the teens ask thoughtful questions, such as “What would your learning place be called?” “What would students study?” “Would you have recess?” “How would you manage distractions?” and “How would you assess students’ work?” In exchange for his responses, the teens offer to sign a blank check over to him. The respect and rapport between Robinson and the teens is endearing. (Watch Part III to see the teens dress him up as Elvis).
Imagining the Possibilities of School