Did you know the world is rapidly evolving? (yes, pure sarcasm tone here). And yet as a system at large K-12 education is moving more and more back to the traditional chalk-and-talk model of education and less gradually making way for more interactive and experiential learning methodologies. I posted in a LinkedIn conversation the other day that it feels like everyone in the education system (admin, educators, and students) are just widgets in a widget assembly line machine.
As we are in the Fourth Industrial Revolution or some argue leaving that for a new wave of revolution, regardless, spearheaded by artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies, it’s beyond necessary that our education system evolves to prepare students for the uncertainties and opportunities of tomorrow. A significant part of this preparation involves adopting frameworks that instill a problem-solving mindset, collaborative spirit, and adaptability—traits that are central to SCRUM, Project-Based Learning (PBL), Design Thinking, and the Iowa Universal Constructs.
One agile framework that I have found to be successful to moving many levers at once in the education space is SCRUM. With its roots in software development, SCRUM emphasizes iterative progress, collaboration, and adaptability—qualities that are quintessential for nurturing a generation of learners who are ready to tackle real-world challenges.
And what I love about it even more is that it applies to whatever hyphenated teaching you prefer (pbl, design thinking, problem based, inquiry based, etc.). At a recent conference I organized my thoughts into a table that illustrates the alignment of SCRUM with PBL, Design Thinking, and the Iowa Universal Constructs, and explore how they collectively form a robust framework for holistic education in preparation for a future intertwined with AI. All these concepts are the keys that we want to instill in our students. The goal of the table is to help show educators and anyone else how these are not isolated words and frameworks. Instead they all work cohesively into an integrated system that benefits students and I would even argue educators trying to manage all the things.
SCRUM: A Catalyst for Adaptive Learning
SCRUM, with its iterative sprints, collaborative ethos, and a focus on delivering value, serves as a potent framework for fostering an adaptive learning culture. It empowers both educators and students to navigate through complex projects, reflect on their learning journey, and continuously improve. This agile approach mirrors the dynamic nature of the modern workplace, where AI and other technologies are reshaping the approach we use to solve problems and collaborate. While it is not always easy for educators to get themselves out in the workforce outside of education, we can implement some tried and true tactics and apply to the education.
Reflection Prompts:
- How can the iterative nature of SCRUM nurture a culture of continuous improvement in your classroom?
- In what ways can SCRUM’s collaborative ethos be embedded in your teaching methodology?
Further Reading:
An Agile Classroom: How SCRUM Can Transform Education(a current classroom project example)
The SCRUM Guide: Principles and Values
Project-Based Learning: Making Learning Relatable
PBL, with its emphasis on solving real-world problems, resonates with the core principles of SCRUM. It encourages students to take ownership of their learning, work collaboratively, and engage with authentic challenges. The cross-pollination of ideas between SCRUM and PBL can lead to a more structured yet flexible learning environment, fostering a generation of learners who are adept at both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
I also feel this helps students to focus on the near-term tasks and helps reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed by all the things. Second, as an educator it provides a framework to help with the classroom management side of things. You can tailor your lessons and project flow in Scrum to model the process to the students.
Reflection Prompts:
- How has PBL transformed the engagement and understanding of your students?
- Can you identify a project where SCRUM and PBL could be integrated for enhanced learning outcomes?
Further Reading:
Project-Based Learning: Gold Standard 7 Essential Elements
Incorporating SCRUM in PBL Environments
Design Thinking: Fostering a Problem-Solving Mindset
If you are using design thinking, then this also complements both SCRUM and PBL by promoting a human-centric approach to problem-solving. It encourages empathy, ideation, and a test-and-learn mentality, which are crucial for navigating the complex challenges posed by AI and other emerging technologies.
Reflection Prompts:
- How can the empathetic approach of Design Thinking be cultivated in your classroom?
- In what ways does Design Thinking intersect with the principles of SCRUM and PBL in fostering a problem-solving mindset?
Further Reading:
Iowa Universal Constructs: Building a Foundation for 21st Century Skills
The Iowa Universal Constructs emphasize critical thinking, flexibility, and productivity, and more that align well with the principles of SCRUM, PBL, and Design Thinking. These constructs form a solid foundation for instilling 21st-century skills in students, preparing them for a future where lifelong learning and adaptability are paramount. There are still many educators in my state of Iowa that don’t even know these exist.
Reflection Prompts:
- How do the Iowa Universal Constructs align with your current teaching philosophy?
- How can these constructs be integrated into your classroom to better prepare students for the future?
Further Reading:
Preparing for an AI-Driven Future
As we continue to process and understand ourselves in an already AI-driven society, integrating SCRUM, PBL, Design Thinking, and the Iowa Universal Constructs into our education system can serve as a linchpin for cultivating a future-ready generation. These frameworks, with their emphasis on real-world problem solving, collaboration, and continuous improvement, align well with the skills needed to thrive in the era of artificial intelligence.
The convergence of these frameworks within the educational landscape paves the way for a more engaging, reflective, and adaptive learning experience. It’s a step towards nurturing learners who are not just recipients of knowledge but active problem solvers, ready to navigate the uncharted waters of the future with confidence and curiosity. As I have shared time and time again in my presentations and PD, we must teach how to ask the right questions while also teaching how to question answers.
Leave a Reply