Deputy Principal - Teaching & Learning, Ms Elizabeth Watson
Dive into Deep Learning
‘Effective schools keep up to date with developments in research and professional knowledge.’
(Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), 2016)
Waverley College strives for every student to be engaged, challenged and learning successfully. We recognise that highly effective teaching is the key to achieving this. Educational research affirms “that engaging teachers in high quality professional learning is the most successful way to improve teacher effectiveness and hence improve student outcomes.” (Greenwald, Hedges & Laine 1995; Guskey & Huberman 1995; Elmore & Burney 1997; Hawley & Valli 1999; Elmore 2002).
This week, the teaching staff had the pleasure of Jorga Marrum – lead educational consultant from the AIS (Association of Independent schools) – facilitate our Professional Learning day on Deep Learning. Jorga has been working closely with Heads of Department and Curriculum teams for the last 18 months, designing inquiry units across Years 5-10 in English, Science, Visual Arts and Geography. She will continue to work with design teams for the next 18 months to deepen units of work across all KLAs.
What is Deep Learning?
Deep learning is the process of students acquiring the six Global Competencies: Character, Citizenship, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking. These skills and attributes are essential for learners to flourish as citizens, and to engage and innovate successfully in our increasingly complex and connected world.
Deep Learning moves students beyond surface knowledge by creating learning experiences where students go deeper in knowledge, standards and assessment. Students are actively involved in the learning process as co-designers and co-learners.
Deepening units of work enlivens our Teaching & Learning Framework. A framework inspired by EREA’s ‘Liberating Practice’ and Australia’s national goal of all young people becoming ‘successful lifelong learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens.’ (Department of Education, Skills and Employment, 2021).
I look forward to keeping you updated on our exciting Deep Learning journey, as well as sharing and celebrating student work.
