Art, Blocks and Discovery Centers in the Learning Center Strategy

The learning center strategy has eight basic centers of learning. Based on the program of the Stephen F. Austin State University Charter School, these centers include the art center, blocks center, discovery center, dramatic play center, library center, muscle center, music center and table games center. A ninth center would be the writing center. Here are some insights into the art, blocks and discovery centers.

1. Art Center – Arguably the most important or most valuable learning center is the art center. This is because it develops creativity and expression which is very important in the teaching strategy. This center enables pupils to practice and improve their language skills, cognitive skills and aesthetics. The art center is also used in teaching science, social studies and communication arts. Teachers can utilise art or drawing for activities in this subjects. For example, pupils are asked to draw different plants and animals which drawings are used in discussing the diversity living things in biology.
2. Blocks Center – For pre-kindergarten pupils, the blocks learning center is essential. This center provides learners with avenues in which to account their experiences and explore the components of implications of structures. For example, students learn and understand more about the community by recreating them through building blocks. Concepts of community and its functions are thought using the blocks center in which students explore the principles of relationships, teamwork and society.
3. Discovery Center – Children ask questions in through the discovery center where they will explore the corresponding answers. The natural curiosity of the pupils are tapped in this center. The discovery center is all about science and students learn about life, the earth and natural laws. It is a venue for learning the scientific method in predicting and finding solutions which starts in the first grade's second half.