How can we move anticipatory sets up a notch?

I recently had the pleasure of attending a captivating workshop led by Jim Knight, renowned instructional coach guru. Among the wealth of insights shared during the two-day event, one topic that particularly resonated with me was our discussions on "thinking devices." These are the provocative objects that teachers can employ to stimulate dialogue and foster higher-order thinking in their classrooms. According to Knight (2010), these devices must possess certain qualities—they need to be complex, concise, humanizing, varied, and definitely not lame.

When utilizing thinking devices, it's crucial to consider the type of learning we aim to facilitate. Knight delineated two distinct types of learning associated with these devices:

1. Mechanical Learning: This refers to the straightforward learning experience where the knowledge, skills, and overarching concepts are clear and unambiguous. The outcomes are evident, and there are definitive right and wrong answers that can be identified without difficulty.

2. Metaphoric Learning: In contrast, metaphoric learning delves into higher-order thinking. It shares characteristics with metaphor—ambiguity and indirect functionality. Metaphorical knowledge doesn't have clear-cut right or wrong outcomes; instead, it encourages nuanced exploration and interpretation.

Throughout the workshop, Knight seamlessly integrated a variety of YouTube videos into his anticipatory sets. It was fascinating to observe how each video he showcased contributed to fostering a positive climate in the room—an essential aspect of effective thinking devices, as they should be inherently humanizing.

Here are some of the videos he shared:

- "Playing for Change":

   - Mechanical Learning: Utilizing Google Earth, students can identify and plot the locations featured in the song.

   - Metaphorical Learning: Exploring the potential of music to instigate positive change in the world.

These videos served as powerful examples of how thinking devices can ignite critical thinking and meaningful dialogue among students.

Retriever:

Metaphorical Learning: How can you persevere?



Maurice Cheeks:

Metaphorical Learning: How can we be leaders?



The Piano

Metaphorical Learning: How can we motivate people by making something more fun?



Here are a few more sites that could prompt great conversations including:


The Slide

The Elevator

The Shopping Carts

Anti Boredom Campaign

The World's Deepest Bin

Bottle Bank Arcade

ImprovEverywhere

Which sites have you come across that we could add to this list?

What is student engagement?

Recently, I had the privilege of stepping into a teacher's classroom and witnessing a remarkable scene of student engagement. It was palpable—the students were fully immersed in their learning journey. Their focused demeanor and animated discussions indicated a deep level of involvement.

The lesson revolved around a compelling question: "In what ways do natural resources and the physical geography of a region determine the establishment of communities?" It was a Social Studies exploration that sparked curiosity and critical thinking.

What caught my attention the most was the innovative use of technology. The students embarked on a virtual "community walk" using an intriguing Web 2.0 tool. Despite this being their maiden voyage with the tool, I anticipated a learning curve centered around its usage. However, to my delight, the students seamlessly navigated the tool, diving headfirst into researching various cities and towns.

The tool in question? "Community Walk" — a fantastic resource that empowers students to explore different regions with unparalleled depth and detail. Utilizing Google Images and Street View, students delved into their research, uncovering the intricacies of each locale with enthusiasm and curiosity. It was truly inspiring to witness their engagement and initiative in exploring the geographic landscapes that shape our communities.

Here is an example of a community walk:


CommunityWalk Map - Map 731016