#1... Use the ‘inquiry stocktake’ doc to reflect on and write about what you aim to learn about inquiry this year.
This year my plan is to continue to keep a clear and detailed record of all stages of inquiry so that I am able to evaluate shifts in my own teaching and in student learning by monitoring (and tweaking) new approaches to the way I deliver the Manaiakalani Cybersmart programme. In the past I have found that using a backwards map is the best way to do this as it not only keeps me on track but also allows me to see the direction forward that I want to travel in.
During our last COL meeting we reflected on the aspects of an inquiry, what worked well, what challenges we faced and what support would be helpful. Doing this not only allowed us to tap into the successes of our colleagues but also allowed us to share challenges and reflect on areas we might benefit with additional support. I particularly liked the idea of having a central “bank” that we could all add to so we can see the breadth of reading being done and dip in. This would not only work well across our COL but as our school has a shared inquiry would definitely be something we would benefit from and should set up.
Last year after working with all our staff on their own teacher inquiries, I asked everyone to share the practices we want to carry forward. What emerged was a common thread. We all want students to see that learning used in one area can be transferred to another - linked to vocabulary, instruction and strategy. This shared understanding has helped guide our way forward and has determined our school’s focus for 2020. This year our 'umbrella focus' is to explore if 'strengthening connections to Smart Relationships help our tamariki to understand and use content specific language and vocabulary in context?' Having a broad shared focus allows us to not only learn with and from each other, but also allows us the freedom to add our own twist and try new ideas.
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