Introducing SOLE at ASB

This year, our school is introducing SOLE (Self-Organized Learning Environments) as a regular, carefully structured part of the learning process. SOLE is an innovative, research-backed approach that encourages students to explore meaningful questions, collaborate with peers, and take greater ownership of their learning—while remaining firmly guided and supported by their teachers.

The implementation of SOLE will follow a phased approach, beginning in Semester 2, with an initial focus on Middle School students. This gradual rollout allows both students and teachers to become familiar with the process and ensures that the approach is thoughtfully adapted to our school community before expanding further.

During scheduled SOLE sessions, students work collaboratively in small groups to investigate “big questions,” research information, discuss ideas, and build shared understanding. Teachers remain actively involved throughout each session— supervising, guiding inquiry, setting clear expectations, and observing learning progress.

Although SOLE promotes independence, curiosity, and student voice, it is not a free-for-all. Each session is carefully planned with clear learning goals, time limits, behavioral expectations, and safety guidelines. This structure ensures a focused, purposeful, and supportive learning environment. Middle School students from St. John's College School, Cambridge. An important part of this initiative is parent involvement and transparency. Parents will be encouraged to stay informed and engaged by learning about the questions students explore, the skills they develop, and the knowledge they construct through SOLE. Opportunities will be provided for parents to understand what their children have learned—through classroom reflections, student presentations, discussions, and shared outcomes—so learning can continue beyond the classroom.

Through consistent implementation and thoughtful supervision, SOLE helps students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, digital literacy, curiosity, and responsibility—skills that are vital for success both inside and beyond the classroom.

For parents interested in learning more about the philosophy and global impact of SOLE, we recommend the following resources:

SOLE explained by Sugata Mitra (TED):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3jYVe1RGaU

The first “School in the Cloud” learning lab (TED Blog):

https://blog.ted.com/the-first-school-in-the-cloud-learning-lab-in-the-united-states-opens-in-harlem/

We look forward to sharing updates as this exciting learning approach begins in Semester 2 and becomes an integral part of our students’ educational journey—together with our school community and families.