What is block scheduling?

Across the nation, school districts are dealing with a shortage of time in the classroom, students' time on task, teachers' preparation time, and time spent on a variety of teaching strategies. By using time more flexibly, the school day can be restructured into a block schedule that results in increased time. Traditionally, middle schools and high schools schedule six or seven 40- to 55-minute classes per day. These classes usually meet for 180 days per school year. With block scheduling, schools change to a three- or four-class schedule in which each class meets for about 90 minutes per day for 90 days. There are many variations of class length and number of days, but the 90-minutes-for-90-days block seems to be the most common. Does this type of scheduling have any advantage over more traditional scheduling methods? Many schools that have tried it believe that it does.

How does block scheduling help improve school systems?

For the schools themselves, the greatest advantage of block scheduling is that there is a better use of resources. No additional teachers or classrooms may be needed, and more efficient use is made of those presently in the school. The need for summer school is greatly reduced because the students who do not pass a course one term can take it the next term. These advantages are accompanied by an increase in the quality of teacher instruction and student's time on task.

How does block scheduling help students?

The benefits of block scheduling are not limited to teachers. Student success rate is found to be greater than is found with traditional scheduling because students seem to learn more and retain it better. Problem-solving skills are better developed. Grades are better and failure rate is less. Some of the advantages for teachers also are advantages for students. Improved student-teacher relationships and a more manageable workload help students also. Students feel better about what they are learning. Outside interference is reduced, and students are better able to concentrate. They feel better organized and more aware of their progress. Parents report that there are many home-related benefits to block scheduling. There are fewer hassles about school and students have a more positive attitude in general. Students take more responsibility for their homework. All of this results in a more relaxed family environment. Many curricular advantages are present for students. At-risk students can be scheduled for required courses during the first term. If they do not pass the course, they can repeat it during the second term instead of taking an elective. This opportunity reduces the need for summer school or other remedial work. Better students can move ahead more quickly and those students who develop a late interest in certain courses can take more of them. For example, a student can take two consecutive math courses in one year. Block scheduling has been shown to increase the number of students who take upper level classes and earn advanced studies diplomas.