When we first implemented the grade 8-passion project it was a stark realization of the institutionalized nature of schools. As we introduced the criteria of learning something they are passionate about and making the world better in some way, the reactions were varied. We were allotting one hour every second day all year long to do this, no small commitment. Students said things like “I thought you (the adult) was supposed to tell me what to do”. “I don’t know what I want to learn about”. “You should be choosing what we learn, shouldn’t you?”.
As we outlined the process of discovery and the freedom to choose it was amazing to watch the excitement, fear, bewilderment and sheer joy.
Some projects took off, some floundered, but all were experiencing self directed struggle and competency building. By the mid year reflection the skills and character building was palpable and the confidence growing for taking on learning that matters.
At the end of the first year the products varied greatly but the important part of the learning was the process. Whether they deemed their passion projects a success or not, the learning was rich and deep. Sometimes a lack of direction can lead to the best learning and development and in many cases these students impacted their community in very positive ways.
The following video, is an example of an outstanding passion project by a Grade 8 student at Colegio Maya: