10 Steps to Develop Great Learners: Visible Learning for Parents

John Hattie's 10-step plan for parents to nurture and develop their children's learning, based on his Visible Learning research, includes choosing the right school, communicating effectively with teachers, and being the 'first learner for your child'.

Format: Hardback
Length: 207 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

John Hattie, a highly esteemed and renowned education researcher, presents a concise yet comprehensive 10-step plan for parents to nurture and foster their children's learning. Drawing upon his globally renowned Visible Learning research, this plan is designed to be applicable to children of all ages. It offers valuable advice on selecting the appropriate school, effectively communicating with teachers, and assuming the role of the 'first learner' for your child. By following these simple steps, any parent or carer can actively support learning and maximize their children's potential.

The first step in John Hattie's plan is to focus on building strong relationships with your children. This involves spending quality time with them, showing interest in their activities, and actively engaging in conversations about their learning. By establishing a strong bond, parents can create a supportive environment that encourages children to open up and express their thoughts and feelings.

The second step is to create a learning-friendly home environment. This includes providing a well-organized and comfortable study space, ensuring that children have access to a variety of resources such as books, educational toys, and technology. Parents can also encourage reading, writing, and problem-solving activities by incorporating these into their daily routines.

The third step is to set clear learning goals for your children. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By setting clear goals, children can better understand what they need to accomplish and stay motivated to achieve their targets.

The fourth step is to provide regular feedback to your children on their progress. This feedback should be constructive, specific, and timely. It should also focus on their strengths and areas for improvement rather than just their weaknesses. By providing meaningful feedback, children can develop a sense of self-awareness and self-esteem, which are essential for learning.

The fifth step is to actively engage in your children's learning. This involves asking questions, encouraging discussions, and providing opportunities for hands-on learning experiences. Parents can also participate in their children's school activities, such as parent-teacher conferences, and volunteer in the classroom to gain a better understanding of their child's learning needs.

The sixth step is to create a positive classroom environment. This includes setting clear expectations for behavior and academic performance, promoting collaboration and teamwork, and creating a safe and supportive space for children to learn. Teachers can also play a crucial role in creating a positive classroom environment by providing engaging and challenging lessons, fostering positive relationships with students, and providing timely feedback.

The seventh step is to use effective teaching strategies. This includes using visual aids, such as diagrams and charts, to help students understand complex concepts. It also involves using interactive teaching strategies, such as group work and peer teaching, to engage students and promote active learning. Teachers can also use formative learning technologies, such as online learning platforms and educational apps, to enhance their teaching practices and provide students with access to a wide range of resources.

The eighth step is to promote lifelong learning. This involves encouraging your children to develop a love for learning and a curiosity about the world around them. Parents can also encourage their children to pursue hobbies and interests outside of school, such as sports, music, and art, which can help to develop their cognitive and social skills.

The ninth step is to provide opportunities for student autonomy. This involves giving students the freedom to choose their own learning goals, set their own pace, and take responsibility for their own learning. Teachers can also provide opportunities for student autonomy by allowing students to choose their own projects, collaborate with their peers, and take on leadership roles.

The tenth step is to celebrate student success. This involves recognizing and rewarding students for their achievements, both academic and non-academic. Parents can also celebrate student success by recognizing and rewarding their own efforts and contributions to their children's learning. By celebrating student success, parents can foster a positive learning culture.

In conclusion, John Hattie's 10-step plan for parents to nurture and develop their children's learning is a valuable resource for parents who want to support their children's learning and maximize their potential. By focusing on building strong relationships, creating a learning-friendly home environment, setting clear learning goals, providing regular feedback, actively engaging in your children's learning, creating a positive classroom environment, using effective teaching, teaching strategies, promoting lifelong learning, providing opportunities for student autonomy, and celebrating student success, parents can create a supportive and nurturing environment that encourages their children to thrive academically and personally. By following these steps, parents can help their children develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st century and beyond.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032189284