What is meant by the Chur model in the Swiss education system?
For many years, individualized and differentiated instruction has been of central importance in Switzerland. Meeting this requirement is a challenging task for teachers.
The Chur model offers a unique opportunity to make successful and challenging learning possible for all students. It is characterized by an inclusive school system, individualized learning support, and integrated gifted education.
What elements are used as a guide in the Chur model for schools?
The Chur model is based on kindergarten teaching methods and facilitates a smoother transition to school. The focus is no longer on the blackboard, but rather on the circle time.
following 4 elements shape the Chur model:
- The design of the classroom
- Inputs in the circle
- Learning with learning tasks
- Free choice of workplace and learning partner
Each of these four elements has an effect, influencing both the structure and the framework conditions.
What influence does the Chur model have on the introduction of Curriculum 21?
The old curriculum is no longer up-to-date. Curriculum 21 It better prepares children for life and the world of work. Many teachers agree on this.
From discussions with teachers who have already used the Chur model, we were able to identify both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, the increased awareness of the Chur model has led to greater acceptance of more flexible teaching methods. This creates a new environment. This leads to teachers gaining greater autonomy to question traditional teaching structures.
A disadvantage is that the introduction of Curriculum 21 places higher demands on the new subject areas, which must be met in addition to the teacher's workload.
Why is the Chur model a good solution for internal differentiation in the classroom?
The potential of children only becomes apparent when faced with open-ended tasks; this also requires different learning prerequisites within a school class.
In the Chur model, the students only know the basic requirements of the teacher and have a clear idea of the minimum goals expected of them; they also know how higher goals can be achieved.
While the students work on their tasks, the teacher observes what is happening. It is crucial for the children to learn to assess themselves, which is a fundamental prerequisite for successful learning.
Assessments help to evaluate where students stand in their academic development. They also help to better show parents where their child can be supported and how to assess their performance.
What does the Chur model look like in practice?
Here's an interesting practical example from SRF: (Practical experience with the Chur model from minute 26:45)
Is criticism of the Chur model justified?
The application of the Chur model can also have negative effects on students and teachers. This can have various causes, for example, students may not be familiar with the basic requirements, or teachers may overwhelm them with too many learning tasks.
To prevent this from happening, teachers need to be well-trained.
following 3 points carry u.a. to a successful outcome at:
- Control by the teacher
- Rules are enforced.
- Control must also be able to be relinquished temporarily.
Chur Model of Room Design – Is the learning landscape of central importance?
Those who teach using the Chur model must be prepared to rearrange the classroom, with the following 6 elements being of central importance:
- A Large seating circle for the input phases
- Different Student workstations which can be transformed into an enriching learning environment
- Sideboards for storing the material, as the students do not have a personal workspace.
- A consultation table, where it is possible to work with small groups
- Enough traffic area, that the students can move around freely
- window sills which can be used as a work surface
Here is an example of a furnished classroom where teaching is done according to the Chur model, with the most important elements:
Figure 1: Chur model – Example of a classroom
Does inclusive education require a new teaching methodology and ultimately new school furniture?
The inclusive school environment must meet the needs of both teachers and students. This requires adapted spatial concepts, and the learning environment must fulfill a wide range of requirements. New furniture can be purchased, but it is not absolutely necessary. Individual elements (such as stools or...) can be used. Acoustic walls) can make all the difference, with the redesign of the space being of central importance.
Chur Model Furniture - Which furniture/teaching materials do you recommend for the Chur Model?
- Seating circle with stools
- Central wall panel
- Wall cabinets spanning the entire length
- Mobile personal storage cabinets for storing learning materials, dividing the classroom and creating storage areas.
- Adjustable student desks
How important are the student chair and student desk in the Chur model, and how should they be arranged?
Worktables should be consistently placed against the outer walls, which allows for quiet and focused work. Student desks grouped together in clusters negatively impact traffic flow and make concentrated work more difficult.
The seating circle with stools is the heart of the Chur model; this is where the input phase takes place. The stools can be placed in front of the whiteboard so that it can be used for the input phase.
Chur Model Facility – What needs to be considered?
Here are two examples that illustrate the difference between the classic classroom and the classroom in the Chur model:
Figure 2: Classic classroom – With the frontal field of vision and the students being exposed to the same disruptive influences
Figure 3: Chur model – The perspective changes depending on the workplace
In the Chur model, students can choose their workspace, choosing the one where they can work effectively. Additionally, partitions can be installed to provide privacy and prevent distractions.
How is the Chur model implemented in other cantons, for example?at the schools in Zurich?
The Chur model is very popular in various regions of Switzerland. Accordingly, the Chur model is also generating considerable interest in the canton with the largest number of students.
If I would like to learn more about the Chur model, are there any further training courses where I can find out more?
Here are 3 further training opportunities for different target groups:
- Day courses for individual teachers and school principals who would like to find out more about the model first
- courses for entire school teams, simply to inform the teachers or for an introduction in the school building
- On-line-Continuing education
Here are 5 insider tips for getting started with the Chur model:
- Anyone starting the Chur model must be prepared to rearrange the classroom. churermodell.ch There are ways to do this.
- The input phases should be kept as short as possible to provide students with sufficient learning time and to increase the time available for teacher support and guidance. The motto is: as much instruction as necessary and as much construction as possible.
- To integrate existing lessons into the new learning structure.
- Gain experience with differentiated learning opportunities. What kind of learning tasks do students need to successfully pursue further education?
- Take it step by step and take care of yourself, as well as reduce the complexity for yourself and the students.
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