Deep Level Pedagogy

In my first article, I posted about the SOLO Taxomony as a framework to move from surface level to deep level learning. This is going to be a primary focus of evaluation and investigation in my PhD. Seeking to find the 'science' behind learning and how deep level learning and transfer of learning can occur on an ongoing, sustainable way.

Michael Fullan, the former Dean of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto has written extensively about creating deep level pedagogical practice and creating learners for the 21st century.

Micheal’s work has spanned over decades and he continues to be innovative, dynamic and a wonderful resource for educators and academics alike. He is recognized as a worldwide authority on educational reform, he advises policymakers and local leaders around the world in helping to achieve the moral purpose of all children learning.

Michael Fullan has many brilliant articles and books in written extensively about the importance of deep level learning and school improvement. Fullan (2014) believes that a change is needed to address teaching and learning for the future. He writes about the 6C’s, I will be referring to these, and how they can be used within the school context in future articles. The 6C's are self explanatory, thorough and well worth exploring more.

1. Character education— honesty, self-regulation and responsibility, perseverance, empathy for contributing to the safety and benefit of others, self-confidence, personal health and well-being, career and life skills.
2. Citizenship — global knowledge, sensitivity to and respect for other cultures, active involvement in addressing issues of human and environmental sustainability.
3. Communication — communicate effectively orally, in writing and with a variety of digital tools; listening skills.
4. Critical thinking and problem solving — think critically to design and manage projects, solve problems, make effective decisions using a variety of digital tools and resources.
5. Collaboration — work in teams, learn from and contribute to the learning of others, social networking skills, empathy in working with diverse others.
6. Creativity and imagination — economic and social entrepreneurialism, considering and pursuing novel ideas, and leadership for action.

Fullan, M. (2014). The Principal: Three Keys to Maximizing Impact. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.