Mike Klonsky - The Small Schools Movement

The transcript discusses the origins and development of the small schools movement, initiated by educators like the speaker and Bill Ayers. It highlights research on the negative impacts of large schools on issues like violence and test scores, leading to the creation of workshops for alternative schooling methods. The movement emphasizes democratic education, social change, and innovative practices like project-based learning. It also addresses challenges in implementing these ideas within a standardized education system, advocating for authentic assessments and resisting privatization. The speaker remains active in promoting these educational reforms.

What was the primary focus of the research that led to the creation of the small schools workshop?

• Exploring the impact of school size on social issues

• Developing new teaching methods

• Improving standardized test scores

• Increasing the number of schools

What was a key goal of the small schools movement?

• To create democratic schools that foster good citizenship

• To reduce the number of teachers

• To increase school funding

• To prepare students for high-paying jobs

Which movement influenced the small schools movement by promoting unstructured education?

• The Montessori movement

• The deschooling movement

• The homeschooling movement

• The charter school movement

What was the role of small schools in the context of democratic social change?

• To eliminate all forms of assessment

• To increase school size

• To focus solely on academic excellence

• To serve as a launchpad for social change

How did small schools enable teachers and students to build trust?

• By focusing on standardized testing

• By increasing homework assignments

• By allowing them to stay together longer

• By reducing the number of classes

What was the approach to assessment in small schools?

• Standardized testing

• Performance-based assessments

• Frequent quizzes

• Multiple-choice exams

What challenge did the small schools movement face in implementing its ideas?

• Resistance from students

• Shortage of teachers

• External pressures from an undemocratic society

• Lack of funding