about the project

Learning Innovations at WestEd supported the implementation of Different Ways of Knowing (DWOK) in New England and New York City through collaboration between WestEd and the Galef Institute. DWOK is a nationally validated Comprehensive School Reform model targeted for schools that serve K–6 and middle school students. The model focuses on teaching and learning in the content areas with arts integrated throughout to support higher learning outcomes for all students. The DWOK model incorporates the multiple intelligences work of Howard Gardner to support school change and improvement. With documented results since 1989, the model includes intensive professional development, onsite coaching by a team, including instructional and artist coaches, capacity building, and study groups to help support teachers' use of integrated approaches. DWOK can be used in conjunction with other approaches. Learning Innovations staff supported four schools in their adoption of the model, with one Massachusetts school gaining enough improvement through this and other efforts to be recognized by the State Department of Education as a “Compass” school demonstrating outstanding improvement.