The Importance of Vertical Non-Permanent Spaces in the Classroom

Vertical Non-Permanent Spaces (VNPS) have emerged as a powerful tool in modern education, particularly through the research of Peter Liljedahl. These spaces, typically whiteboards or similar surfaces placed on walls, offer a dynamic platform for student learning and engagement. The following article explores the importance of VNPS, supported by research findings, examples, and practical applications.

Making Thinking Visible

Engaging Students Actively

VNPS encourage students to stand, move around, and actively engage with the material. This shift from passive to active learning helps in making their thinking process visible. When students work on vertical surfaces, their work is immediately accessible to both peers and instructors, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Liljedahl’s research highlights that students are more willing to take risks and try out new ideas on non-permanent surfaces, knowing that mistakes can be easily erased and corrected.

Enhancing Collaboration and Communication

One of the key benefits of VNPS is the promotion of collaboration among students. As they work in groups at vertical surfaces, they naturally discuss their thinking and build on each other’s ideas. This interaction not only improves their understanding of the subject matter but also develops their communication and teamwork skills.

Thinking Tasks on VNPS

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Liljedahl’s studies emphasize the use of "thinking tasks" on VNPS. These tasks are designed to challenge students' problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. By working on complex problems in a visible manner, students can explore multiple solution paths and receive immediate feedback from their peers and teachers. This process helps in deepening their understanding and retention of concepts.

Encouraging Perseverance

When students encounter difficulties with thinking tasks on VNPS, they are more likely to persist in finding solutions compared to traditional paper-and-pencil methods. The public and non-permanent nature of VNPS reduces the fear of failure, making students more resilient and open to revising their approaches until they succeed.

Thin-Slicing Activities

Breaking Down Learning into Manageable Chunks

Thin-slicing involves breaking down complex concepts into smaller, more manageable parts. These activities, when conducted on VNPS, allow students to focus on one aspect of a problem at a time. This method helps in reducing cognitive overload and makes learning more accessible. Liljedahl’s research shows that students can build their confidence incrementally, leading to a more thorough understanding of the subject.

Visualizing Connections and Patterns

Using VNPS for thin-slicing activities helps students visualize the connections between different parts of a problem or concept. By seeing how individual components fit into the larger picture, students can develop a more integrated understanding of the material. This visualization is crucial for subjects like mathematics, where recognizing patterns and relationships is key to mastery.

Evidence of Effectiveness

Improved Engagement and Performance

Research by Liljedahl and others has shown significant improvements in student engagement and academic performance when VNPS are used. Students are more motivated to participate and take ownership of their learning. Additionally, the collaborative and interactive nature of VNPS has been linked to better retention of information and higher achievement levels.

Teacher Insights and Adaptation

VNPS also provide valuable insights for teachers. By observing students’ thought processes in real-time, educators can quickly identify misconceptions, provide timely interventions, and adapt their teaching strategies to meet the needs of their students. This ongoing assessment and adjustment are crucial for effective teaching and learning.

Conclusion

Vertical Non-Permanent Spaces represent a transformative approach to teaching and learning, as evidenced by Peter Liljedahl’s research. By making thinking visible, encouraging collaboration, and supporting innovative learning tasks, VNPS enhance student engagement and understanding. Implementing VNPS in classrooms can lead to a more dynamic, interactive, and effective educational experience, ultimately preparing students for future success.