Like a parrot in a flaming tree I know, it's pretty hard to see (Split Enz)

Sometimes I happen upon an article that succinctly sums up what I've been chewing over in my mind for some time.

This one alerted me to Salman Khan and his new educational model.

These are the key ideas (as outlined in that article). Each one will probably initiate a sharp intake of breath - great! Let's cut to the chase:

• Get rid of grades and demand mastery learning when core concepts are required
• Allow mixed ages to learn together
• Remove boundaries between subjects
• Invert the place of classwork and homework (so - send out the coursework and homework/questions/ tasks are completed with peers and teachers)
• Have teams of teachers available (not industrial model one class and one teacher)
• Reschedule the year to use the long summer holidays for learning
• Use assessments in a qualitative way (over years where possible)
• Use internships within the community (like the Young Enterprise Scheme)

I like these ideas. They all detach from the one-size-fits-all approach that is maintained in our industrial model for education that somehow manages to maintain its hold in a digitalised world. Take a breath.

Time for change!