In our most recent episode of “Learner Centered Spaces” we had the amazing opportunity to talk to Aaron Blackwelder. Aaron is a Digital Learning TOSA and coaches boys and girls golf in Southwest Washington. He is the co-founder of Teachers Going Gradeless and educational contributor to Spectrum Life Magazine. Aaron is a Washington State English Teachers Fellow, 2019 Washington State Teacher of the Year nominee, and five-time golf coach of the year. Aaron is a husband and the father of two boys on the autism spectrum, both of whom inspire him to become a teacher who meets the needs of all students.
In our conversation we talked about how learner centered spaces are messy, dynamic, and difficult to plan. Aaron drew an analogy to a carnival, bursting with life, action, and a wide variety of engaging activities to choose from.
Aaron also gave us amazing examples of projects that he and his English students take on that have a real impact on their community. “We’re learning because we want to be better people.”
Take a listen and let us know what you think! You can find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
To learn more about Aaron, you can find him on Twitter: @aaronsblackwel1.
He also recommends that you engage with the Teachers Going Gradeless Community.
Look for his forthcoming book, “Teaching in the Age of AI”.
