Use these guiding questions to help facilitate discussion around this video series.
Principles of Ideal Learning in Action: A Look at The Brooklyn New School
This video shows classroom life and outdoor learning at the Brooklyn New School. It depicts how academic skills are developed in the context of thematic curricula that integrate literacy, math, science, social studies and the arts. Projects and activities – both in and outside the classroom – provide opportunities for children to generate and apply knowledge. This video also demonstrates how social/emotional learning is supported through The Bear Curriculum, a hands-on interaction with teddy bears that was developed by the Center for Social/Emotional Learning at Bank Street College of Education. Throughout the video the Principles of Ideal Environments can be seen.
A Close-Up Look at the Ideal Learning Principles
Play is an Essential Element of Young Children’s Learning
Active/experiential/play-based learning takes place at The Brooklyn New School throughout the kindergarten day. Children have opportunities to explore, question and problem-solve both in the classroom and outdoors at the school’s farm, mud kitchen, and other outdoor spaces where block building and large motor activities take place.
The Time of Childhood Is Valued
This video shows examples of how children and their work are valued at The Brooklyn New School. It shows how the environment takes children’s thinking seriously and honors children’s process, discovery, and unhurried time.
Interview with Principal Diane Castelucci
The history, vision and mission of The Brooklyn New School is explained in this video featuring BNS Principal Diane Castelucci. She reflects on what it takes to nurture, support, and respect the learning of the diverse members of the school community.
Continuous Learning Environments Support Adult Development
In this video Principal Diane Castelucci explains the ongoing learning that takes place amongst the school’s educators and how the educators in the school community navigate the challenges presented by the demands of the large school system in which they reside.
