The Island School Curriculum:A New Story

An interpretation of the recommendations made by the

academic review teamJustin Symington, Dean of Academics

The Story Animal

Humans need stories. Our worldviews, for instance, are simply stories that inform our interpretation of the past, direct our actions in the present, and guide our steps into the future.

The Island School’s Story

The Island School, especially, depends on its stories to inspire the community and to create a sense of purpose in the learning that takes place during the semester.

Stories of Creation

And we have some great stories. Our creation, for one, is a powerful story of commitment to a vision, which has now expanded well beyond its original limits.

Stories of Alumni

Also, we have amazing stories of alumni following the passions The Island School helped to nurture.

The Academic Story

THE CAPE ELEUTHERA ISLAND

SCHOOL VISION:

To be a community that fosters the development of responsible, caring global citizens by restoring a sense of wonder and respect for biotic and cultural complexity.

One of the greatest benefits of the academic review was the preparation process. It forced us to focus on the core values encapsulated in the vision statement.

Leadership

Community

Responsibility

The Academic Review

The most valuable feedback we received from the academic review team was a reminder of what is special about our program—authentic scientific research, cultural immersion opportunities, and student leadership development.

The Academic Review

The feedback also set the table for us to evaluate how well specific courses and programs support those three core learning opportunities and to effect the changes that will make The Island School a model for other semester abroad programs.

Focus AreasFour key areas for consideration: Rework the curriculum so that all courses and programs support one or more of the three signature learning areas. Create more time in the schedule for students to complete coursework and to reflect on their learning. Expand in-house professional development opportunities. Actively recruit faculty, staff, and students of color.

Based on their observations of our program, the review team suggested that we consider making significant changes to four key areas. The next slide provides a visualization, albeit simplified, of their curricular recommendations.

Celestial Navigation

Environ-mental Art

TropicalEcology

Morning Exercise

KayakExpeditions

SCUBA

Seminar

ResearchProjects

CaribbeanLiterature

Bahamian Culture

HomestayProgram

CommunityOutreach

LegacyProjects

Down IslandTrips

Health &Wellness

Leadership

Community

Responsibility

Next Steps Proposed Timeline for Implementation:Jan/Feb 2008 – Leadership Team Retreat at Lawrenceville to create framework for changes June 2008 – Curriculum redesign session at Lawrenceville Fall 2008 – Phase I of changes Spring 2009 – Phase II of changes Fall 2009 – Final changes and evaluation of new framework

It is time to revisit our vision and rework the entire program to ensure that our students are receiving the quality of experience that our potential allows.