Flexible Learning in Education: Why It Matters
At the International School of Riga (ISR), we recently welcomed visitors from Ogre Municipality who came to observe our teaching and learning practices. One of their biggest takeaways was how much trust we place in the learning process itself. Unlike the rigid, step-by-step lesson structures still widely used in Latvian schools, ISR embraces flexible, student-centered learning that fosters deeper engagement and understanding.
This brings us to an important question: Are strict lesson structures holding students back?
The Challenge: Traditional vs. Flexible Learning
Many schools still follow highly structured lesson plans, requiring a fixed sequence of introduction, explanation, guided practice, and independent work. While structure provides clarity, excessive rigidity can limit student engagement, creativity, and deeper learning.
The Skola2030 reform in Latvia aims to introduce competency-based education, but many classrooms still struggle to move away from traditional teacher-led instruction to more student-driven learning. Observations from educators and research (OECD) confirm that Latvian lesson evaluations often focus on whether every step is completed, rather than whether students are actively engaged in meaningful learning.
At ISR, we take a different approach. Here’s how:
Encouraging Multiple Ways for Students to Show Their Learning
Instead of a one-size-fits-all assessment, we encourage students to demonstrate understanding in ways that work for them. For example, in a recent music lesson, students were asked to interpret a rhythm—some wrote it down, others drew it, while some used movement to express what they heard. There was no rigid “exit ticket” requirement—just genuine learning happening in real time.
Focusing on the Learning Journey, Not Just the End Product
Traditional teaching often emphasizes producing a finished product within a set timeframe. At ISR, we prioritize deep learning over rushed completion. Our students revisit concepts, refine ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions, rather than just aiming for the “right” answer.
Designing Learning Environments That Inspire Exploration
Our classrooms are designed to support active learning with flexible activity zones, open-ended tasks, and a culture that encourages independent thinking. Visitors from Ogre Municipality were especially impressed by how engaged our students were—learning was happening naturally, in an organized yet dynamic way.
ISR’s Unique Advantage: Small Class Sizes & Dedicated Support
Of course, ISR benefits from smaller class sizes and dedicated support teachers, allowing for a highly personalized learning experience. This means students get individualized attention, tailored learning support, and opportunities to explore concepts in greater depth—something that is harder to achieve in large classrooms. This unique advantage allows us to fully embrace a flexible learning model while maintaining high academic standards.
The Takeaway: What Other Schools Can Learn from This
Latvian schools are beginning to adopt competency-based education, but there is still hesitation in moving beyond rigid lesson structures. Our experience at ISR shows that when students take ownership of their learning, engagement and understanding increase significantly.
To prepare students for the future, we must move beyond rigid lesson plans and create spaces where students can think, experiment, and explore.
🔍 Want to see how flexible learning works in action? Visit ISR and discover our approach firsthand!
Further Reading & Resources
For those interested in learning more about flexible learning structures and competency-based education, here are some valuable resources:
📌 OECD Report on Latvia’s Education System – Read Here
📌 Skola2030 Competency-Based Education Overview – Read Here
📌 Edutopia: The Power of Student-Led Learning – Read Here
📌 Harvard Project Zero: Visible Thinking Routines – Read Here
These resources provide insights into modern education strategies and support the transition toward student-centered, flexible learning approaches.
