Learning Opportunities

The shift to focussing on the "what students know, understand and do" approach to teaching and learning doesn't have to be scary, nor does it need to occur through one major change! Before we begin drafting formal lesson or unit plans, let's start to dabble and experiment with concepts in our classrooms. In this hands-on inquiry based workshop, participants will begin to build their conceptual inquiry toolbox with some simple, easy to implement techniques that will jumpstart the shift to concept focussed teaching and learning. Although we will learn some new techniques, teaching to a conceptual level of understanding does not mean that all of your "old" practices are no longer relevant or valued. We will also learn how to weave together current practices with inductive inquiry to deliberately develop brain schema and leverage students' conceptual understanding. Participants will experience concept focussed learning in action while also gaining practical tools for designing learning experiences that cultivate a deep conceptual understanding with current Alberta curriculum. Throughout the day, we will explore questions such as: Where do concepts come from? What does concept focussed learning actually look and feel like? What are some easy first steps I can take or simple techniques that I can try as I begin to dabble with teaching for conceptual understanding in current curriculum? What role do my familiar instructional techniques have in a concept-focussed classroom? How can I leverage those techniques to also develop conceptual understanding? What types of resources support concept focussed learning?

Target Audience

Teachers K-12

Also Recommended For

School Based Administrators; Instructional/ Learning Coaches; District Leaders