The practicalities of it all!!
Free Quality tools
http://headguruteacher.com/2012/07/17/the-washing-hands-of-learning-think-pair-share/, Pair, Share
This article reminded me of the simple tool, Think, Pair, Share. Basically the process is to have the learner firstly think about a question/concept. This can be written down, but it doesn’t have to be. Then a “pair” of learners share their thinking. Finally this can be shared with the whole group. Read the article to see the benefits of this tool.
This link will take you to the Quality Learning Australia website where you will find some really useful tools and templates. One of my favourites is the Bone Diagram. The key elements of this tool are: current situation, desired future state, positive forces and restraining forces. It is a really great tool for planning.
Forcefield Analysis
This video explains in simple terms how to use the force field analysis. The tool can be used to see whether the driving forces outway the hindering forces. It is useful in identifying the likelihood of success of a change project.
Traffic Lights
Dylan Wiliam talks about Pedagogies of engagement and Pedagogies of Contingency. A technique he indicates can be used as a way of adapting teaching to meet the needs of the learner is the traffic light. If the learner is on track they would have the green light showing that they don’t need any support at this time, the amber light is displayed if things are going OK but they might need help, the red light is displayed when the learner feels stuck and needs support before moving on. This technique ensures that those who really need the help are getting it. This technique can be used with any learning group, regardless of size or age. Dylan Wiliam’s web address is http://www.dylanwiliam.org/
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A reflection tool I have found very useful is called the DIGA. The acronym stands for Describe, Interpret, Generalise and Apply. Used after a learning activity it really provides an opportunity to deepen the understanding of the learning. Firstly you describe what just happened, then interpret by asking questions like, why did we do this, then generalise what principles can be taken from the learning experience, then apply – how can we apply what we have learned to other situations. The tool really makes you focus on the learning. I found the tool in David Langford’s, Tooltime.