i missed who the OP was. She is in NZ too. The so called modern learning environment basically consists of removing the wall between 2 classes and smushing them together although there is usually a movable wall that can be used. Class sizes are about 24 to 30 so 48 to 60 kids and two teachers. Full inclusion (one difference from the 70's) so those 60 kids could include low functioning autistic kids, developmentally delayed kids and kids with uncontrolled ADHD. Group work is mandatory and moving around necessary because keeping the kids at their desk is considered old fashioned. I am going to get some sort of noise reduction device for ds 8 when he moves into the school hall with 59 other kids while the build the new 60 kid classroom.
The really sad thing is it was only the year before last that I saw a piece on TV about the last open plan classroom being divided up.
Last edited by puffin; 05/10/15 02:19 AM.
