Working on a team of about 15 people, students work to find clues and solve puzzles in an effort to “breakout” of a locked box during the 45-minute challenge. The clues came in many forms: digitally with QR codes and email, entangled in art, knotted ropes, videos, and some even hidden under black light. One clue leads to another and the excitement in the room is tangible as participants try to make sense of what information they uncover. And then, they beak out.  Along the way, students learn about the history of communication.

Inspired by this though-provoking approach to teaching and learning, regional educators were introduced to the game-based learning approach at the second session of New Teacher Academy on December 1st. 

Considering the application of BreakoutEDU in the classroom, teachers were excited about how well it promotes cooperative learning and students working together towards a common goal. Within the challenges, students can take roles that suit their learning styles. The most exciting part is that through the studying of clues and trying to figure out the puzzle, learning happens organically, without teacher led discussion.

BreakoutEDU is an excellent way to generate student interest and knowledge about a topic or to demonstrate and apply skills they’ve just learned in the classroom. There are hundreds of game options available across every content area.

Video on BreakoutEDU

For more information about BreakoutEDU, please visit their website.  Want to see if your students can breakout? Contact Learning Resources today! CA BOCES has 5 BreakoutEDU kits available.

​By: Sarah Wittmeyer and Shannon Dodson, CA BOCES Professional Development

C-A BOCES welcomed new teachers from around the region to the ’16-‘17 New Teacher Academy.  The first of four sessions was held on September 21st, 2016.  There were 24 teachers in attendance for this full day workshop.  The day was filled with meaningful activities to help teachers build a better understanding of what it means to be a new teacher, as well as helpful resources and ways to make connections with fellow colleagues.  Collaboration, engagement, reflection on teaching standards, and goal setting were a huge part of the day. Teachers also learned about available digital resources through our Learning Resources SNAP system.  Teachers were able to have great conversations with their colleagues as well as with the entire group throughout the day.  We look forward to continuing to teach and learn from each other over this school year. 
 
New Teacher Academy will have three more days of learning, sprinkled throughout the rest of the academic year.  The upcoming dates are December 1st, February 16, and the last on May 25, 2017. 

By:  Kathleen Agnello, CA BOCES