Introducing you to Visible Learning
We are working on a project called Visible Learning which is based on educational research . We would like to introduce you to the work we have done so far so you can support your child by using the same expectations and language.
What makes an effective learner?
We have begun our journey through Visible Learning by looking at a shared language of learning. Through this shared language we are hoping to see our learners talking with confidence and clarity about their learning.
As part of this, we have created our LEARNING acronym. Each letter of this stands for a different characteristic that creates an effective learner.
L is for LEADING MY OWN LEARNING
This is when learners believe in themselves as a learner and take responsibility over their own progress.
This can be done through:
- Being self motivated.
- Ask for and use feedback to further their learning.
- Going beyond what is asked of them. For example, carrying out additional learning at home.
- Taking responsibility when they don’t make progress, not blaming others for this.
- Making decisions and choices to help with their learning.
- Thinking carefully about what they need to do in their learning today.
- Being organised and ready to learn.
E is for EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
This is when learners are aware of and can manage their own feelings as well as tuning into the feelings of others.
This can be done through:
- Recognise my own emotions and how they might make me behave. Know my own strengths and weaknesses.
- Follow through on things that they agree to do. Take initiative.
- Understand how other people behave and how they might be feeling.
- Care about others as well as themselves.
- Being able to embrace change and adapt to things around them.
- Having dreams and ambitions.
A is for ATTITUDES
This is when learners can choose their own attitude, be positive and give their learning their full attention.
This can be done through:
- Choosing their own attitude.
- Always giving something their full attention.
- Having fun.
- Enjoy learning but understand that sometimes it is tough.
- Being kind and doing things for others that make them feel good.
R is for being RESOURCEFUL
This is when learners use all of their skills, knowledge, strategies and tools to make meaning.
This can be done through:
- Using tools to help with their learning.
- Using different strategies to help with their learning.
- Using all the skills and knowledge they already have to support their learning.
N is for NEURONS
This is when learners use their brain to make connections and show that they are creative and divergent thinkers.
This can be done through:
- Using their brain to make connections.
- Being methodical and coming up with systems and ways to work things out.
- Being observant.
- Spotting patterns.
- Being creative and a divergent thinker.
I is for being INQUISITIVE
This is when learners are curious and ask lots of questions.
This can be done through:
- Being curious about the world around them.
- Asking questions to deepen their understanding.
- Finding our new information to help support their learning.
N is for NEIGHBOURS
This is when learners learn together, have good relationships and value each other’s ideas.
This can be done through:
- Sharing ideas with our learning neighbours or learning threes.
- Helping others when they need it,
- Listening to and respecting others ‘ideas.
G is for GROWTH MINDSET
This is when learners enjoy challenges, are resilient and learn from their mistakes.
This can be done through:
- Seeing mistakes as learning opportunities.
- Being resilient—not giving up!
- Taking on challenges with enthusiasm.
How can we support at home?
- Ask you child what they have been LEARNING not what they have been DOING.
- Encourage inquisitiveness.
- Support them with homework.
Help build resilience by promoting Growth Mindset…
Encourage them to always try their best.
Encourage them to challenge themselves and to keep trying even if they get stuck.
Reassure them that it is ok to take risks and make mistakes.
