Today we had the privilege of going on a field trip to Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry. It was very interesting to see the differences in their school which is based around Inquiry and comparing it to the experiences I have had in a public school. I found it interesting that they have had 2800 visitors from all around the world to observe how their school functions. I really liked the idea of expanding their learning into the community by using the ice rink, YMCA, etc instead of keeping the learning within the school walls.

During my visit, I observed many differences from what I am used to, for example, the different classrooms and how/what the students were working on. I believe this school can help many students to have a better and more successful school experience by giving them a lot of freedom in their learning. Students will always be interested in what they are learning because they chose the topic. Students also set their own goals and time frames so they are able to work at their own pace, which I can also see as being a negative aspect.

Although I believe this school has many benefits, I also have some concerns. If a student always chooses to work in a quiet room, are they learning how to interact and communicate with others? If a student chooses not to work one day and on their daily plan they have nothing, is anyone making sure they do work? Another concern I have is how does this school environment prepare the students for university? I understand that these students will have the studying skill to do the homework that comes after class but these students will not be prepared to have a routine of going to lectures or labs every day.

I believe this school can work for some students but not all. Personally, I would not function in a school like this one. I need structure and routine… the two main things this school does not have. I like to be told what to learn, when to learn it by, and the assignments I am to do. I also do not believe I would be as motivated to work as I have the capability of setting my own daily goals.