An interactive session with Q & A underpinning the session.
Session hosted by Lynette Winter, faciliated by Jane Bates (educational developer) with Chris Habinshuti
(humanities), Anna Livingstone (sports) and
Adam Brasell (outdoor education).
Jane covered introductions and introduced the first
activity. Think of the time when you were a young learner and had a positive
experience and why this was positive. Break out groups formed up to share these
perspectives.
Group reconvened and progressed to discussing two themes communication and learning environment.
Chris talked about passion and how teachers who had passion for their work influenced and inspired their students. This helps learners see another side of learning, that interest in a topic can lead to other things. Passion is contagious :)
Anna shared her tips on communication. Setting expectations is important, including for behaviours, standards for work, communications, in-class relationships, activity participation etc.
Adam covered communications within learning environments. Important to realise not all 'chatter' is frivolous. Identifying relevant chatter adds to discussions and encourages learners to express curiosity, interest and contribute to their learning. Sometimes, extraneous chatter can be 'parked' for later and acknowledging the importance of contributions is helpful in building a participative learning environment.
Chris shared learning 'stepping stones' activity to help learners see the steps required to complete the course, used at the beginning of the course. Reference to this activity helps reassure students and provides them with a visual guide to progress through the course. The metaphor becomes a shared experience and reference point for each class.
Jane then asked participants to enter any items on communication type hints into the chat not already covered or if there are any questions.
Question on autism - Jane provided recommendation that information offered visually and aurally. Clear instructions and not too many items at one time.
Communication should also include lots of feedback and modelling of 'being a learner'. Learning is hard work and support required. The learning process may have to be 'explained' to learners and that results do not occur instantly but requires effort and time.
Positive learning environments then explored. Each presenter provided some ideas.
Adam maximises the advantages of using the outdoor environment to help create positive learning environments. Important to provide opportunities for curiosity, to be excited about their peers' success and then use these to further celebrate learning success.
Anna provided the example of getting students' names correct by checking with them during the first session. Therefore important to build relationships with students instead of just a focus on covering content. Through firm relationships with learners, there is better recipocal learning.
Chris covered the need to have respect for what the students bring with them into the course and to work with them to enhance their strengths. Listening to students also important and ensure everyone's ideas are valued. Learn from students - e.g. Maori from students so they are offering their expertise and sharing experience.
Last item was for each panelist to share challenges and how they were overcome.
A good session for sharing practice.
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