Series/Themes: Documentary, Historical Themes, Political and Social Issues

Genre: Documentaries

Film Year: 2015

Locations: USA

Film Length: 86 min.

Director: Greg Whiteley

Featuring: Scott Swaaley, Mike Strong, Mark Aguirre, Brian Delgado, Ken Jennings, Larry Rosenstock

Director Greg Whiteley examines the history of education in the United States, revealing the growing shortcomings of conventional educational methods in today’s innovative world. San Diego’s High Tech High poses an alternative to traditional rote-based learning and standardized testing, focusing instead on a project-based curriculum and student-focused learning that develop critical and collaborative skills. Through interviews with students, teachers, and parents, this hopeful documentary points to a potential paradigm shift in education that could reawaken the love of learning and hold the key to success for millions of youth. Discussion with executive producer Ted Dintersmith, Jennie Chiu (U.Va.), Joe Allen (U.Va.), Kathleen deLaski, and moderator Bob Pianta (U.Va.)

Supported by Charlottesville Tomorrow and the Curry School of Education