Reimagining the Classroom

RETHINKING K-12 EDUCATION FOR A WORLD IN TRANSITION

The world is changing, and we have an unprecedented opportunity to consider how and why we do what we do. In Reimagining the Classroom, renowned educator Dr. Theodore Richards identifies the flaws in traditional approaches to teaching and learning, encouraging us to reengage with the foundation of education. How can we create spaces that truly prepare our students for life? How can we educate children to think of themselves as creators, rather than consumers? By confronting profound questions and identifying practical answers, we can reimagine every aspect of the school day.

This book offers both an inspiring take on the learning process and a practical guide for the future, with steps and examples parents and educators can use to begin to create new learning spaces, approaches, and outcomes. Dr. Richards offers specific practices for reimagined learning in science and math, literature and fine arts, spirituality and mindfulness, practical arts, and justice and social-emotional learning. Educators will also learn to create their own lessons using a powerful new framework. With Reimagining the Classroom, we can embrace this once-in-a-lifetime chance to rethink how we live as human beings in community, beginning with our children.

"Reimagining the Classroom offers a radical vision for education in a time of crisis and transformation. In addition to providing hands-on ideas for educators and parents, it presents us with an entirely new way of looking at learning spaces and practices, ultimately taking the reader beyond the confines of the traditional classroom and offering a pedagogy for transforming our world."

--ARNE DUNCAN, Chicago CRED

"Theodore Richards is an inspired educator and artisan of cultural regeneration, a visionary activist. In these gem-filled pages, he reimagines the fundamentals of education--the art of becoming fully human--supporting us all to enhance the health and diversity of our endangered Earth communities. Essential subversive reading for twenty-first century change agents."

--BILL PLOTKIN, PhD, author of Soulcraft, Wild Mind, and Nature and the Human Soul