Why are schools turning to Innovative Learning Environments?

MLEs, ILEs, FLEs? What does all this mean and why are NZ schools changing?

Modern learning environments, flexible learning environments and the Ministry of Education's term -  Innovative Learning Environments, are defined by the MOE as:

An innovative learning environment is an environment where the National Curriculum is being expressed in the way it is intended. It is capable of evolving and adapting as educational practices evolve and change – thus remaining future focused. This reflects the fact that education needs to keep pace with the world we are preparing young people for.
Innovative learning environments are learner-focussed and emphasise valued learner outcomes. They encourage collaboration and inquiry, both for learners and teachers, and allow teachers to teach in the style that best suits the needs of diverse learners.

Ministry of Education - Innovative Learning Environments

An ILE usually has multiple teachers - anywhere from 2 to 5. A common grouping is 3 to allow 2 teachers to act as instructors and a third as a learning coach. The space is open plan and would have the same teacher to student ratio as a traditional classroom.
ILEs operate differently to traditional classrooms though. In an ILE there is much more emphasis on students managing themselves and making decisions for their own learning.

​Click this link to see a youtube clip about Pegasus Bay School in Christchurch. It was made by the Ministry of Education and is a glimpse into what the MOE sees as the future for schooling in New Zealand.

Pegasus Bay School youtube clip

​What kind of learning environments do you think would support our learners to be confident, connected, creators and contributors?