INDEPENDENCE IN LEARNING
by Mrs Skidmore, Director of Teaching and Learning
One of the skills of a good teacher is the ability to give a child time to think. Teachers at Scotch College undergo regular refresher training through a course known as the Brinsden Programme which has been operating over the last six years. Consultant Ms Helen Egeberg takes groups of teachers through workshops and then teachers observe and critique each other's lessons. I was reminded of this fundamental skill of 'thinking time' during Celia Lashlie's talk to parents this week. In the Brinsden programme, we reflect on questioning techniques where we want the child to be accountable but safe in answering questions. That takes practice and skill. How easy it is to ask a question, allow a short time (maybe three seconds) before we shoot a possible answer. Maybe we shoot several possible answers. No wonder a boy can answer "Dunno" if he realises we are going to answer the question if he gives us long enough. Giving a boy thinking time, whether in the classroom or at home will help him to develop as a thinker, one of the key attributes of the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile.
In the Senior School, Mr Peter Frusher returns to work this week after a well-earned long service break. The boys have been quick to find him to seek help on advice on courses, scholarships to university, future pathways. One way a boy can demonstrate independence is in finding out information for himself. The round dinner table chat about possible options are really helpful but then leave him to do the ground work himself. The boys have so much information at their fingertips; it is so easy for them to go to any website to explore their own options. That can be a great family exercise in itself but ultimately let the boy be the inquirer, let him become the knowledgeable one about matters that affect him.
