Brian's Blog

Deep Learning through balanced approaches to Direct Instruction and Inquiry-Based Learning. This blog post draws inspiration from Rachel Lehr's recent insights (2023) on the instructional framework employed by Dayton Public School, particularly their Instructional Playbook and an article from Jay McTighe and Harvey Silver (2020) called Instructional Shifts to Support Deep Learning. Lehr's message struck a chord due to its enlightening and encouraging nature. The strategies encapsulated within the playbook not only find their roots in a robust evidence base but also vividly illustrate the advantages of embracing a balanced approach to education. Dayton Public Schools' Instructional Playbook, as highlighted by Lehr, exemplifies a comprehensive and well-founded framework for effective teaching and learning. The strategies it contains are deeply rooted in educational research, showcasing the value of a well-rounded and diverse approach to education. This playbook serves as a t...

Character development is a vital component of a student's educational journey (Duckworth, 2006). It goes beyond textbooks and exams, encompassing qualities like integrity, empathy, and resilience. To foster character development effectively, we must cultivate a balanced approach including the three critical elements of Discipline, Grace, and Mentorship (Hoffman, 2000). Character development is the often-overlooked, yet profoundly significant, aspect of a student's educational experience. While traditional education primarily focuses on academic achievement measured through textbooks and exams, the nurturing of a student's character is equally important, if not more so (Darling-Hammond, 2013). This journey goes far beyond memorising facts or acing tests; it encompasses the cultivation of essential qualities such as integrity, empathy, and resilience (Lickona, 2004). In this blog post, I will discuss how character development is an essential aspect of a student's educatio...

  The human brain, a fascinating and intricate organ, holds the key to our ability to learn, remember, and think critically. Composed of interconnected nerve cells and synapses, it forms a vast network where learning takes place. Each connection between nerve cells, known as synapses, strengthens the bond between them. The brain constantly evolves and forms new connections, a phenomenon called neuroplasticity. This remarkable adaptability enables us to learn and acquire new knowledge continuously. Every time we learn something new, the brain forges fresh connections between nerve cells, expanding its capacity for growth. Learning dispositions, both positive and negative, play a vital role in shaping the brain's ability to learn. Certain dispositions facilitate effective learning. Curiosity, the thirst for knowledge and understanding, propels us to explore and seek answers. Openness to new experiences broadens our horizons and allows us to embrace diverse perspectives. A willingness...

In recent years, the concept of student voice and choice has gained significant traction in education. Teachers and educators have increasingly recognised the importance of involving students in decision-making and providing them with opportunities to actively participate in their learning ( Miliband, 2006) . This shift in pedagogy not only enhances the educational experience but also empowers students to become more engaged, creative, and critical thinkers (Watanabe-Crockett, 2018; Paul & Elder, 2019). As a result, student-created material has gained recognition and prominence as a valuable tool for fostering an environment of exploration, inquiry, and personalised learning. When students are given the opportunity to create their own learning materials, it ignites their creativity and allows them to take ownership of their education. They can express their ideas and perspectives through various mediums such as writing, multimedia projects, presentations, and more. By engaging in t...