An Introduction to Microschools
During COVID-19, the term ‘microschool’ became popular. Notably, Cushla Barry, an education blogger, used the word as early as 2010. When the COVID-19 pandemic peaked, students had to adapt to remote learning provided by their public school system. Some parents and students found this transition difficult. Parents had to return to work, and students struggled to receive the face-to-face instruction they needed. Consequently, parents began exploring other alternatives to public schools, such as private schools and homeschooling. It was during this period that microschools and learning pods started gaining popularity.
What is a Microschool?
A microschool is a learning environment that has similarities to homeschooling and private schools. Microschools design the curriculum for each student, tailoring it to their individual needs, regardless of where they are in their learning journey. The learning experience in microschools focuses on project-based and hands-on methods instead of relying on long lectures and memorization. Classroom sizes in microschools can vary, accommodating as few as 5 or as many as 150 students of different ages, with one or more instructors. Microschools select instructors based on their passion for educating children, professional expertise, parental involvement, or a combination of these factors. Flexibility is a main pillar when it comes to microschools. Especially when we look at key factors such as location, learning environment, and curriculum of microschools.
Location / Learning Environment:
The United States commonly uses subject-centered curriculum design as the most preferred curriculum method. Occasionally, classes can take place outdoors when suitable. The location and learning environment significantly impact students’ motivation and concentration, either positively or negatively. For example, students who are prone to lose focus can struggle in larger, traditional classroom settings where distractions are abundant. Transitioning the child into a microschool where the classrooms are smaller allows the student to be closer to the instructor and receive personalized attention, in return making focusing easier.
Curriculum and Learning Design:
The most used curriculum method in the United States is subject-centered curriculum design. This approach could disadvantage students as it does not account for their individual learning styles. When their learning styles are not considered, students can become disengaged and lose inspiration to learn. Microschools typically adopt a learner-centered approach to their curriculum. This means the instructor puts a high focus on the individual student versus the group of students as a whole. In a learner-centered approach, each student’s individual goals are considered
Who should consider a microschool?
Every child can benefit from being introduced to microschools and experiencing their tailored approach to education. If you’re looking for a quality education outside of standard public school and at a lesser cost than a private school, then a microschool may be the correct choice of education for your child. Children who are neurodivergent or have learning disabilities can benefit from a personalized lesson plan where the instructor is there for their individual success. Children who are not academically challenged in the typical classroom can benefit from a microschool setting.Public schools often fall short in keeping students challenged and engaged, which does a disservice to the students.
What is our microschool like?
Our microschool model, BLI Institute, uses the arts, STEM, and athletics to empower children. We inspires them to become lifelong teachers and learners. We provide core instruction in the morning hours, then transition to specialized enrichment after lunch. The morning focuses on reading, creative writing, science, and math. In the afternoons we focus on learning through specialized classes that children choose: STEM classes in machine learning and marine science; theater, music class and painting; and sports nutrition, tennis clinics, and swimming, to name a few. Additionally, our model includes a 5.5 hour learning day with 12-month enrollment, which has proven very popular with our children and families.
Our low 8:1 TPS allows us to provide targeted instruction to each child. Teachers are able to give more help to students who need it while also allowing independent learners to design some of their own lessons.
Microschools and the future
The introduction to microschools marks a transformative shift in the education system, offering unparalleled flexibility, personalized learning environments, and individualized attention for children. With their ability to adapt and cater to each student’s unique needs, microschools are revolutionizing education. If you believe that a microschool could be the ideal fit for your child, we encourage you to apply today and embrace this innovative approach to learning.
