Methodology is seen as a key driver for Curriculum for Excellence. Two key influences are the Cognitive Acceleration programmes (such as Let’s Think, CASE, etc) and Assessment is for Learning. The key factor here is that both methodologies are evidence based, that is, they have been shown to improve pupil learning. I found these documents useful:
Why develop thinking skills and assessment for learning in the classroom? (Word doc 323kB)
This snappy title (!) has been produced by the Qualifications and Assessment Authority for Wales. In 26 pages, including appendices and references, it provides a succinct overview of Why?, How?, Characteristics and Approaches to promoting collaborative, thinking classrooms.
How to develop thinking skills and assessment for learning in the classroom (Word doc 2.49MB)
This 68 page booklet is largely made up of Appendices, one of which outlines 28 Thinking Skills Teaching Strategies and another outlines 34 Assessment is for Learning Strategies. If you know of any strategies they have missed out then please post them because I can’t think of any!! If you know about and are using most of these strategies please post a comment and invite me to visit. Help spread the ideas.
