Why It’s Problematic
Students do not retain information that doesn’t make sense to them, which can lead to superficial learning.
When students are asked to solve problems that aren’t identical to the type the teacher modeled, they struggle to know what steps to take.
It makes students dependent on the teacher, undermining their ability to think independently and develop their own agency as problem solvers.
More Promising Practices
Empower students to make sense of problems on their own first. Give them time to think and explore possible approaches before offering teacher input.
Promote collaborative discourse by allowing students to share their thinking with peers, which helps them articulate and refine their understanding.
Ask guiding questions that help students clarify their thinking instead of providing direct answers, encouraging deeper understanding.
Use student ideas as the foundation for introducing or clarifying new content, building on what students already know and can do.
By shifting away from step-by-step instruction and allowing students to grapple with the problem, we create more opportunities for them to engage in authentic sensemaking and develop the skills they need to tackle unfamiliar challenges.
Pamela Seda, Ph.D.
Copyright 2024 Seda Educational Consulting, LLC. All rights reserved.
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