Learning Sprint Overview

The Learning Sprint

The Learning Sprint is a fixed-length learning cycle that includes 5 self-directed learning routines. Short enough for frequent feedback yet long enough to produce something meaningful and assessable. Typically a Learning Sprint is four weeks or less. The Learning Sprint is composed of five self-directed learning routines:

1. Refinement – The routine of clearly expressing, prioritizing, and breaking down objectives into smaller achievable chunks. This can happen at any time within the Sprint to prepare for future sprints.
2. Planning – The routine of determining what will be achieved by the end of the Sprint and how the work will be accomplished.
3. Check–In – Short and frequent conversations around the learning to align, check progress, adapt, address impediments, and provide support.
4. Review – The process of assessing, validating, and providing feedback on the learning in the Sprint.
5. Retrospective – The process of reflecting on the Sprint and identifying actionable commitments to improve how we learn and collaborate.

Together, the five Learning Sprint Routines encompass the full range of self-direction skills and provide a container for effective collaboration. Classrooms repeat these routines in short cycles. With each repeated iteration of the learning sprint, classrooms build their self-direction and collaboration muscles

Each Self-Directed Learning Routine is supported by three visible aids that make learning and the work transparent to all.

1. The Learning Backlog – a dynamic scope and sequence of learning and deliverables.
2. The Learning Canvas – visualizes the learning plan and tracks progress throughout the Learning Sprint
3. The Progress Increment – the tangible sprint result that can be assessed and given feedback on.

Each Self-Directed Learning Routine can be configured using the Spectrums of Collaboration and Choice. The teacher scaffolds and incrementally grows these respective skills in each Self-Directed Learning Routine. Each classroom may look different based on where students are and the type of content.

An infographic showing the events in the Learning Sprint to guide classrooms through the process.

Download the Learning Sprint Infographic and other free resources on our Agile Educator Resource page.

We are happy to offer these resources to help you in growing your Agile Classroom.

Please share the good with colleagues and let us know how these work for you.