Year-Round Education

[kfr0812]

Hello,

For a term paper for my education class I am writing about the positive and negative aspects of using year round education. I was wondering if anyone had any first hand experience in these types of schools, and if so, if you wouldn't mind sharing your thoughts on it. Even if you have not worked or experienced a school on a year round schedule, your opinions would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[kwood76504]

I don't have first hand experience with year round schools, but in graduate school we studied about reform programs that organized this very idea. I can give you a couple of resources that might help with your research paper. KIPP (knowledge is power program) is an organization that has succeed with this philosophy in the US. If you read chapter nine of “Outliers” from Malcolm Gladwell, he really gives a great understanding of KIPP and year round education reform along with the history of why we don’t have “too much” school and why we probably should.

Hope this was helpful or at least a good starting point. :)

[Boxcar]

I think it really depends on the type of program. I worked a summer program at a local center. It was very similiar to the fall and spring programs but was more loosely structured. We did activities outside and had lots of Free Play and Choice Times. More of the activities were open-ended. We went on more walks. We spent 90% of the day outdoors. It wasn't like the children were not given a break from achedemia (sp?). I think variety is important as well as flexibility. I attempt this all year, but I think it is most important in the summer.

I should mention that the students involved were 3-5. I worked with the pre-K and K children. Their families needed care for them as adults don't get the summers off from work in most cases. This summer program helped them had a rich and safe enviroment to continue learning when they could not be in thier families' care.

I think the benefits and costs to a program that lasts all year vary by age and demographic.