Maine Richardson's Blog: Do Students Learn Better in Chairs or Couches?

Meet Oskar Cymerman, the science teacher on a quest to Starbucks his classroom

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

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Design your classroom to be intentional and inviting. Today’s guest, Oscar Cymerman, has decided to “Starbucks” his classroom.

Oskar says,

“Rows are for compliance but Starbucks is for collaboration.”

Now, he’s reorganizing his science lecture area with Starbucks in mind.

Yes, there’s still room for experiments, but you have to listen to the show to see what he’s done.

Click to listen on: BAM Radio Network | iTunes | Stitcher

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Show Notes on “Couches or Chairs”

How Oskar created a vision for his classroom that fits with his pedagogy.
How blended learning, Chromebooks and a desire for more collaboration (and less teacher Powerpoints) led Oskar to want to “Starbucks” his classroom.
How Oskar is rallying his community and the students to help fulfill his vision.

About Oskar Cymerman

Oskar Cymerman@focus2achieve is a Chemistry and Principles of Engineering Teacher at Woodbury High School in the Twin Cities Metro Area, MN. He is interested in and frequently blogs about brain-based approaches to learning and classroom design. In addition to starting the “Starbucks My Classroom Project” and #StarbucksMyRoom, he is currently writing a book titled “Crush School: Every Student’s Guide To Killing It In The Classroom.”

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