"The original classroom model’s three driving factors—student decisions directing the process, using the local community as a resource for learning, and providing an audience beyond the classroom for the students’ work—were explored and expanded over time by practicing educators and Foxfire staff, resulting in the eleven Core Practices that are the basis of the Foxfire Approach to Teaching and Learning. Successful Foxfire-trained teachers in 38 states have discovered the enriching classroom experiences that can be had when students are empowered and truly invested in their work."
Core Practices:
1 • The work teachers and learners do together is infused from the beginning with learner choice, design, and revision.
2 • The academic integrity of the work teachers and learners do together is clear.
3 • The role of the teacher is that of facilitator and collaborator.
4 • The work is characterized by active learning.
5 • Peer teaching, small group work, and teamwork are all consistent features of classroom activities.
6 • There is an audience beyond the teacher for learner work.
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• New activities spiral gracefully out of the old, incorporating
lessons learned from past experiences, building on skills and
understandings that can now be amplified.
8 • Reflection is an essential activity that takes place at key points throughout the work.
9 • Connections between the classroom work, the surrounding communities, and the world beyond the community are clear.
10 • Imagination and creativity are encouraged in the completion of learning activities.
11 • The work teachers and learners do together includes rigorous, ongoing assessment and evaluation.
