Orestad is a college, a gymnasium and a landmark physical space in Copenhagen, Denmark. 

• No classrooms! Open spacial configuration

• Open spaces re-define role of teacher

• Media-centred curriculum

• Local community is invited to collaborate with students in projects

 

Key Trends: Architecture, Collaboration, Creativity, Communication

The Steve Jobs School provides a student-centred approach to learning with the implementation of  six-week learning plans developed by the pupil, parents and teachers, together. There are no formal classes or daily schedule and students are able to drop in to  30-minute workshops on various subjects. Students learn in open spaces and are encouraged to learn at their own pace and preferred learning environments. Textbooks have been replaced with iPads and students have flexibility of learning. 

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Key Trends: Individualized Learning, Collaboration, Creativity, Communication

Founded by former Google executive Max Ventilla in San Francisco in 2013, AltSchool was an innovative, state-of the art modern tech school serving kids from preK- 8th grade in Silicon Valley. It provided individualized learning plans for each student. As of 2019, AltSchools ceased operation of its schools, however is still considered one of the most innovative learning concepts

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Key Trends: High Tech, Individualized Learning, Architecture

The Green School in Bali, Indonsia, was selected the the greenest school on Earth by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2012 and the 2010 Winner of the Aga Khan Award for architecture.

• Built with local resources (bamboo)

• Run on renewable power (hydroelectric)

• Students actively involved in ecological projects (growing own vegetables on site)

 

Key Trends: Collaboration, Environment, Architecture

In1996, a school principal and a superintendent proposed the founding an alternative high school called the Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center (MET) in Rhode Island. Their premise was to develop a school with completely individualized learning plans for each student based on interests. The model was very successful, achieving 90% graduation rates compared to the state's 69.5% average. The founders have grown the MET into a non-profit organization that helps port the model of individualized learning to other schools and regions.

 

Key Trends: Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking

Built for 5th grade to 8th grade students, Ron Clark Academy gives students learning experiences that many individuals will not experience in their lives. Students will take over 30 field trips per year in the United States and travel to 6 continents in seeking unique learning opportunies. The academics are also built around a “Hogwarts” style of competition. Education emphasizes public speaking and creative ways to express learning. 

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Key Trends: Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Experiential Learning

Vega schools adopt a conceptualized learning method. The school has specially-designed open classrooms, where students engage in problem-based learning and activities are designed to promote collaborative learning. The goal is to make school  a "joyful place" to learn. The school is pillared on 5 key values: empathy, excellence, integrity, innovation, and collaborations. 

 

Key Trends:  Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Experiential Learning

Conceptualized by billionaire, Carlos Rodriguez-Pastor, Innova school was build with the aim of providing private school quality education at a reasonable cost to children in Peru. They implement a blended learning environment using technology, guided independent study and skill building to promote student creativity, flexibility and critical thinking. Their aim is to train students to co-exist with others in changing environments, address complex challenges and manage their unique learning experiences. Innova has opened 63 schools in Peru, serving more than 50,000 students and has expanded into Mexico and Colombia.

 

Key Trends: Project-Based Learning, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Experiential Learning, Personal Growth

The Maples Met School is a project-based, learner-based school in Winnipeg with 150 learners and 9 faculty. It was ranked as one of Canada's most innovative schools in 2019. The MICE program provides students with internships with local mentors, to design their own start-ups with real clients. Students learn the design process and business development skills while gaining critical skills for a changing work world.

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Key Trends: Project Based Learning, Experiential Learning, Learner-Centred

This authentic Indigenous, culture-based school combines learning with the seasonal activities of the Gwich’ya Gwich’in people. Learning occurs both in the classroom and around the land with the teachings of traditional fishing, hunting and trapping grounds surrounding the community. This approach to Indigenous education has been characterized as “reconciliation in action.” Key components of this school program included: Leadership, resilience, land-based inquiry, language reclamation, reconciliation and cultural pride.

 

Key Trends: Indigenous, Community Connection, Skill-based