The Museum School’s guiding principle for curriculum is constructivism, a philosophy of learning founded on the premise that, by reflecting on experiences, individuals construct their own understanding of the world. While the curriculum is firmly rooted in Georgia Performance Standards, constructivism avoids a one-size-fits-all method of instruction by allowing teachers to customize lessons to each student’s needs.

IN THE CONSTRUCTIVIST CLASSROOM, LEARNING IS:

  • Constructed. Students create new knowledge based on their prior knowledge.
  • Active. Students determine some of their own goals and then analyze, interpret and predict information.
  • Reflective. Students think about their experiences and interests and set goals accordingly.
  • Collaborative. Students work together to make discoveries and add their prior knowledge to that of the group.
  • Inquiry-based. The main focus is on solving problems. Students ask questions and investigate to find answers and draw conclusions.
  • Evolving. Students reevaluate prior conclusions as new knowledge emerges and understanding deepens.
  • Personalized. Standards-based curricula are customized to each student’s prior knowledge. All students learn, because teachers meet them at their current level of understanding.