Innovations in Thinking and Learning
Building a Thinking Classroom
The purpose of this resource is to introduce educators to three approaches that lead to deep learning: Knowledge Building, New Pedagogies for Deep Learning, and Integrative Thinking. This type of learning focuses on problem solving and developing critical modes of thinking, preparing students to be happy and successful now and in their future lives. Each pedagogy helps students develop the competencies they need to become responsible and contributing global citizens.
You will hear diverse voices of educators and students on the cutting edge of thinking and learning, pushing themselves to be the best they can be. Educator, parent and student reflections add personal stories that illustrate the powerful impact of these approaches. Lastly, you will see how these three approaches compliment each other and how they engage all learners.
THE THREE APPROACHES
New Pedagogies for Deep Learning
districts and countries so that every child can develop the global competencies of collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity, character and citizenship. This resource explores how NPDL is fostering deep learning and features learners who are contributing to the common good, addressing global challenges and flourishing in a complex world.
Together with educators, students and families as partners, we will “engage the world to change the world”.
Knowledge Building
Integrative Thinking
THE IMPACT
This resource introduces the key ideas of each approach through the words of the founding thinkers. Primary, junior, intermediate and senior classroom examples illustrate what effective teaching and learning might look like through the lens of each approach.
You will see co-learning, collaboration, inquiry, authentic learning, real-life application of learning, deep thinking and reflection, self-assessment, cross-curricular application of the approaches, technology as a tool, students as change agents, and more.
IN-CLASS LESSONS
Knowledge Building in Math
Suzie, a Grade 6 teacher, has restructured her math class to adhere to the principles of Knowledge Building.
Ladder of Inference
The Ladder of Inference is introduced as a protocol for problem-solving. Each step in the process is explained and demonstrated in this grade 4 class.
Under the Magnifying Glass
Secondary students are creating new ideas by listening to each other and extracting the best thinking to push their understanding beyond the usual.
Causal Model Secondary
Grade 9 students work toward a deeper understanding of King Lear, and more importantly, the human condition.
The Pink Skirt
This true story told by Chelsey Roche recounts the instance that led her to use a Causal Model in tackling the issue of bullying and the creation of a safe-school environment.
Causal Model Elementary
Students learn to use this integrative thinking tool as a powerful protocol for complex problem-solving.
Knowledge Building Experience
The progression of student thinking, questioning, theory-building and testing that led to deep learning about space travel and the Mars Mission.
Positive Problem Solving Using the Pro Pro Chart
In this 3 part video, secondary students use the Pro Pro process to create new ideas that combines the best of two models.