Finding answers to their own questions - a must-have skill
Have you ever heard people say, “At 4 a child has 400 questions, but at 14, their teacher has 400 questions for them?” Let’s look at the benefits of creating a classroom filled with independent learners and how Google tools can help to foster this mindset. <source - Syllabus Level 2 Google Certified Educator Exam>
Most schools have internet connected devices such as iPads, laptops or Chromebooks that allow children to explore, investigate and find the answers to their own questions. At Aldwyn Primary School we are beginning to create a culture of curious learners who are actively encouraged to find the answers to their own questions and use those answers to complete topic work.
Children have access to Chromebooks, laptops and computers, that allow them to use a variety of online tools to collect and evaluate information from many different sources. During lessons, we have open-ended question and answer sessions (Q&A’) where students will research and contribute to a class discussion or Jamboard session covering many different topics. This is the first stage of creating independent learners.
Independent learners ask lots of questions and thrive on inquiry-based learning. With kids being able to access facts and figures online in just a few clicks, the role of the teacher in modern classrooms is changing. We need to be fostering students’ inquisitive minds and encouraging them to be independent learners who know how to search for what they need and seek assistance when they need it.
Empowering students with the skills covered in the previous lessons ensure that they can become masters of their own learning not just by searching, but by finding answers online by themselves. Students can also utilize these skills to find support from others. Independent learners experience all of these as they seek out lines of inquiry and master associated content. This is the modern student who we want to foster and support. <source - Syllabus Level 2 Google Certified Educator Exam>
This is what we are aiming for at Aldwyn Primary School and it appears to be paying off. More about this in another blog.