ABSTRACT
This chapter vividly describes examples of a graded classroom organized for instruction versus a multiage classroom organized for children’s learning. The differences between a “teaching place” and a “learning space” are delineated. The teaching place focuses on “curriculum tasks” directed by the teacher, whereas the “learning space” involves “learning environments” actively directed by the child and his or her interests. Multiage education, honoring a social constructivist viewpoint, first highlights the importance of establishing an atmosphere of trust and respect, and next outlines the importance of interest, autonomy, choice, and cross-age learning for children within the multiage learning environment. Play, centers, projects, problem-based and inquiry learning are illustrated with examples from mixed-age learning environments. Multiage is changing the school environment from one of control to one where children are respected, trusted, and encouraged as autonomous learners.
