Why Exhibitions?

The exhibition is not a new thing. The public display of mastery is an old form of assessment in American schools.  In the 18th century, the common schools and academies regularly put students on the stage to recite, orate, or perform in some way.  Community members could attend these performances of learning and assure themselves that the young scholars of the community were being readied to take their places as citizens.

It is in that spirit that we are putting our students before you—parents and community—to give them the space to demonstrate their learning to an audience.  An exhibition is designed to be the culmination of each student’s academic experience.   It provides an authentic way to show understanding, to display critical thinking, and to practice presentation skills.

This is what project-based learning (PBL) is all about.  Buck Institute, one of the leading advocates of PBL says:  “In PBL, students go through an extended process of inquiry in response to a complex question, problem, or challenge.  Rigorous projects help students learn key academic content and practice 21st Century Skills such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.”

At TAF Academy, we believe this will best prepare our students for college, career, and citizenship.

~ Pam Wise, TAF Academy Instructional Design Specialist