Giving Compass' Take:

• Signature learning experiences are programs that help schools achieve their priority learning goals by offering distinct opportunities for students. 

• Examples of signature learning experiences include built-in internships, travel-based learning, and design lab programs. How can education donors support the expansion of signature learning experiences across school districts? 

• Read about how school gardens can provide hands-on learning experiences. 

Good schools have intentional—not inherited—features. They share a set of agreements that create coherence around a few animating ideas. Strategies, structures, schedules, systems, and even spaces are aligned. Everything works together for teachers and learners toward a few key priorities.

It’s certainly easier to create this level of alignment by starting from scratch. It’s also possible, over time with effective and sustained leadership, to transform a school or even create a coherent system. This kind of ‘retrofit’ approach is far more challenging, however.

Once a school moves through the intentional design or transformation phase, the focus then shifts to its students. What will instruction look like in this new environment? Unique aspects of distinctive learning models may be incorporated; these can be referred to as signature learning experiences. They are encouraged experiences aimed at meeting a school’s priority learning goals.

High value internships, like those featured at schools in the Big Picture, NAF and Cristo Rey networks are signature learning experiences. Big Picture even created a mobile app to expand access to and manage students’ internships.

Travel-based learning is a signature of Democracy Prep, where graduates often visit five continents. Most students at University Academy in Kansas City study abroad. Superintendent Tony Kline said the trips are often life changing and prepare the students to leave home, live independently and feel included at college.

Some schools and networks have building blocks that are repeatedly included to promote powerful learning experiences.

Read the full article about signature learning experiences by Tom Vander Ark at Getting Smart.