Bedlam in Schools.

"Having used the Cube in a number of schools and in many classes over the last three years I recognize it as a very useful tool that can be used to benefit many pupils.

In many classes there are children who are not keen on asking for help when they do not fully understand* . Using the Cube in class has been a very helpful means of encouraging some of the quieter, shyer pupils to start asking for guidance and explanation.

Some of the benefits to be derived include:

1) The cube provides a series of problem solving situations that the children find both challenging and rewarding.
2) Children focus attention and retain interest for a considerable length of time. Over half an hour is normal but fifty minutes to an hour is not exceptional.
3) Tasks can be differentiated to cater for children of differing abilities from nursery age to twelve years and beyond.
4) Children are prepared to work beyond frustration level because there are many solutions.
5) Children are willing to seek guidance when working with the cube. This willingness to ask for help can be encouraged in other areas of the curriculum.
6) Each solution found provides the basis for five more.
7) Working with the Cube helps many pupils to develop a sense of spatial awareness.
8) Pupils find using the Cube is a great source of relaxation.
9) Using the Cube combines learning and play for pupils at all stages.
10) Systematic use of the Cube enables the teacher to set up confidence boosting situations that give the children experience of achievement and success.
11) The Cube presents a useful means of positively involving pupils who complete the planned class work quickly and well.

It has been said that there are four “e’s” in effective learning viz enjoyment, enthusiasm, encouragement and enquiry. If these elements are present in a teaching situation many pupils will benefit greatly.
Using the Cube regularly as a classroom tool brings the four elements into play for the benefit of all.

* “ Can you remember any time when you have been learning that you have not understood something but you have not asked for further explanation because you have not wanted to seem silly or because you have thought everybody else had understood?”

Every time I ask this question of adults or children I receive an affirmative answer. How many people have missed vital explanation because of such reticence?"

John Wilson is a 'retired' teacher who takes the Bedlam Cube around Schools in Scotland