This winter, the Middle School is launching a pilot program called “BVR Studio”.
Focused on choice and skill-based learning, BVR Studio—happening right now as you ready this—is an opportunity for MS students to engage in co-curricular experiences. Inspired by both NuVu and US Student-Direct Projects, the program allows MS students to work independently or collaboratively on projects and learning explorations of their choosing.
“Students need a time during the day where they can research and create ideas that they are truly passionate about—and BVR studio gives them more of that time” — Tiffany Smith
What exactly are students doing during BVR Studio Time?
There are three phases of BVR Studio:
- The Brainstorm: Determining your what and why
- The Idea: Engaging in your how (aka what are you going to do)
- The Fin(ish)
Students are researching and brainstorming topics they are interested in—from writing stories to creating sports debates to building online virtual reality environments, students have the freedom to pursue their interests.
Studios will create an environment where students can provide feedback and co-create experiences that will be shared with the middle school community.
The BVR Skills
Connect
Explore
Practice
Do
Beginning Studio Time
Students will…
SETTLE into the space:
Transition into the space, ready themselves to work
REFLECT on what they are working on:
Where did you leave off?
Where do you need to go?
How will you use your time?
What support and/or resources do you need?
What are my thoughts, questions, and predictions?
PREPARE to use studio time efficiently and effectively:
What is your plan?
What materials do you need?
Make your plan, organize yourself
Closing Studio Time
PREPARE to leave Studio:
Where are you now in your work?
Where is a good stopping point?
Where are you leaving off?
REFLECT on what they are working on:
How did I do based on my plan for the day?
What do I need to do to clean up and transition to lunch/midday activities
Who do I need to let know I am ready to leave?
In the future, different experts in various fields will come and run different workshops for the students, giving them strong insight and thoughtful guidance that will drive their projects forward. We can’t wait to see the upcoming projects!