Visible Thinking

Visible thinking routines are a collection of strategies that teachers can use to help students analyse, think critically, and create deeper understanding about a variety of topics. Visible thinking routines can be used in both the classroom and online learning environments, and provide a great way for teachers to aide students develop the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century while enhancing learning, engagement and competencies of students.

Visible thinking routines are based on the idea that students can become more engaged and develop better understanding of a topic if they can see it. By using visible thinking routines, teachers can help students to break down a topic into smaller, more manageable pieces. This allows students to explore multiple aspects of the topic and develop a more comprehensive and well-rounded understanding.

One of the most effective ways to use visible thinking routines is to provide students with an opportunity to think critically about a topic. By having students analyse a problem or topic from multiple perspectives, they can gain a better understanding and become more engaged in the learning process. Additionally, visible thinking routines can be used to support students become solution architects using problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and creativity skills.

Visible thinking routines can also be used to foster collaboration and help grow relationships between students and teachers. By having students work together to critically discuss a topic, they can learn from each other, share ideas, and develop a sense of community in the classroom. This can promote a greater sense of engagement in the learning process and strengthens the relationships they need to be successful.

To that end, visible thinking routines are an effective way to enhance learning, engagement, and competencies of students. By providing students with an opportunity to think critically about a topic and develop the skills they need to be successful, teachers can help create an environment that encourages learning and encourages students to reach their full potential.

To discover more about these strategies check out Harvard University's Project Zero.

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