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Thursday, December 11, 2008
More debate over block scheduling
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The merits and pitfalls of block scheduling came up Wednesday as the State Board of Education reviewed annual requests of waivers from schools using the program.
The arguments were the same we’ve been hearing for years. But what is surprising is that the debate continues.
The traditional high school day contains about six class periods, each lasting about 55 minutes. Students typically take the same classes all year. Block scheduling divides the school day into larger blocks of time. Students take fewer classes each day, but sit in those classes longer.
About half of all Georgia high schools use block schedules.
Many people say the block design is flawed. Students spend about 30 fewer hours of classroom time on a subject under this plan. The classes usually meet only half a year, reducing the number of hours teachers spend on each subject.
Critics also complain that block can force students to wait too long before taking next-level classes in sequential courses. (A student may take Spanish I during the first semester of freshman year, but not take Spanish II until the second semester of sophomore year.)
But there are benefits. Students take eight courses a year instead of six, so they have more time for electives and fine arts. And a 90-minute class gives teachers more time for hands-on projects, such as science experiments or group activities.
During the late 80s and the 90s block scheduling was the hot fad. When it moved to Georgia, there was a ton of debate. What is about block scheduling that gets people all revved up?
ALSO: For those of you in Gwinnett, the school board will hold a public hearing tonight on its plan to opt out of some state mandates in an effort to improve student learning. The hearing begins at 6:30 at the school board offices, 437 Old Peachtree Road in Suwanee.
