When our students returned to campus after the period of remote learning, our teachers spent time reflecting on the experience of teaching remotely. We asked teachers what they would do more of and what they would do less of as a result of what they had learned. One clear theme emerged from teacher feedback; our students were less capable of independent learning than we expected. Teachers all agreed that we need to be intentional in guiding our students to develop the skills to be self-motivated, organised and confident in their learning. We want each student to have a range of learning strategies and to understand how they learn best.
We know that our graduates are entering a world of rapid change. When competing for jobs, the ability to be an adaptable life-long learner will be a game-changer. Learning in real life does not involve a teacher’s presence, a set time-frame or the accountability of due dates. Learning in the context of life requires motivation, independence and grit. These are the capabilities we aspire to develop in each student and it’s never too early to start.
If you’ve even spent time with a pre-schooler you will know that they are full of questions about the world. We aim to build on natural curiosities as we engage students in learning that connects with the real world. Teachers who were once the ‘sage on the stage’ now become the ‘guide by the side’ to allow students to take the lead in their own learning. Many of the units of work we design allow for student choice and for students to pursue areas of interest while still meeting outcomes.
Part of learning to learn is also being able to self-assess. Embedded in many learning opportunities at school are chances to give and receive feedback from peers while projects are in draft stage and to learn to be reflective and self-assess. By the time work is finally assessed, students have had the opportunity to refine and hone their work based on feedback. This further builds their learning skills.
As we guide students to develop the skills of being capable, independent learners we are confident that we are setting them up for future success. "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." W.B. Yates
Mrs Deb Cooper
Principal
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