Genius Hour Projects

Today we completed our first version of Genius Hour! Genius Hour is based upon Google’s 20% policy. This policy says that with 20% of the time, employees can work on whatever project they would like as long as it advances the company in some way.

The question arose, if such amazing things were made during Google’s 20% time, just what could students come up with if given a chance to work on a project that interested them?



For several weeks Room 102 was given time in study hall to explore their interests. The projects ranged anywhere from exploring the art of painting to building a telescope to duct tape art to seeing the world through a bug's eye to applying a chef’s eye to the notion of flavorful cooking.

The results were absolutely incredible! The kids were so excited and student engagement was at its highest. I am so very proud of the work students completed for Genius Hour. Hopefully during the summer, students will continue to explore their project and learn even more new skills.  

Check out our slideshow of Genius Hour projects.

You may read more about the Genius Hour Project in Room 102 by clicking here.

Genius Hour

Welcome back! I have been so excited for students to return to the classroom. During spring break I researched Google's 80/20 Principle. Learn more by clicking here.   

Google's practices are trickling down to students in classrooms. Educators call it 20 percent time or genius hour. As I read about this genius hour my thoughts turned to my students! How exciting!  Just what could students come up with if given a chance to work on a project that interested them?



So on Tuesday, our first day back from spring break, I introduced genius hour. Genius hour is a time given during the school day to allow students to follow their interests and learn about topics that peek their curiosity.

I showed students the following videos, got them thinking about their interests and curiosities, and finally helped them set up portfolios to store their thoughts and ideas for genius hour.  

It was such a thrill to watch students. They were buzzing. They were excited. They were curious about it, with lots of questions. Room 102 will continue to find their way through this genius hour experiment in learning.  Please take the time to ask your student questions and offer input. Check our blog often as I anticipate many clever projects are about to go viral.

Update 5.15.13     Our projects are completed. Click the lightbulb to view our slideshow.