So how does a Learner Driven Community measure progress, without dampening the joy of self-directed learning? Not an easy task.
Traditional grades and report cards have no place in a Learner Driven Community:
- Each Eagle needs to advance at his or her own pace, discovering individual gifts and exploring passions instead of being marched lockstep through grade levels;
- World class work cannot be measured by arbitrary letter grades or standardized tests that place little value on 21st Century Skills;
- Young heroes need to be encouraged and held accountable by peers and parents, not judged by an institutional framework.
At Acton Academy, we focus on three simple numbers that celebrate hard work, leadership and real accomplishments:
Weekly Points measure how many hours of intense work an Eagle dedicated last week to Core Skills and Quests. Every hour of intense work equals 20 points.
360 Peer Reviews and comments show how an Eagle is forging his or her character and developing as a leader;
Number of Badges Earned showcasing real world accomplishments and peer reviewed against rigorous standards of excellence.
Eagles set goals in each of these areas, and measure progress. Parents use our online Points Tracker to dig more deeply into specific areas, giving Eagles the freedom to fail, learn and recover, while reserving the right to offer consequences, rewards and encouragement that fit with a family’s value..
Three simple numbers. Measuring hard work, character and high quality work. Turning control back to Eagles and parents. Trusting each Eagle to advance at his or her own pace.
Surely a much better system than a report card and standardized tests.