The Minimalist Educator Podcast Episode 048: Unlocking the Power of Thinking Maps with David Hyerle
How can eight simple visual tools revolutionize the way we think, learn, and teach? Join us as we sit down with David Hyerle, the visionary educational researcher behind the Thinking Maps model, to uncover the transformative power of these minimalist tools. From his formative years teaching in inner-city Oakland to his groundbreaking work with the Think Program and the Bay Area Writing Project, David shares his inspiring journey. We explore how Thinking Maps streamline the plethora of graphic organizers into eight essential cognitive tools, empowering students to better visualize and articulate their thoughts and fostering higher-order thinking across all grade levels and subjects.
In this episode, we navigate the evolving landscape of education, shaped by cognitive neuroscience, AI, and social media, and discuss the urgent need for independent and collaborative thinking skills. David sheds light on how integrating Art Costa's habits of mind and social-emotional learning with Thinking Maps can support continuous cognitive development from early childhood through adulthood. We also delve into his global work with Thinking Schools International, emphasizing the foundational role of thinking in driving whole school change and improving educational practices worldwide. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with actionable insights that can transform your approach to education.
David Hyerle started teaching in inner city Oakland, CA and then turned to focusing on work with the Bay Area/National Writing PROJECT and doctoral work at UC Berkeley and Harvard Schools of Ed. in the late 1980’s.
David is the Developer of the Thinking Maps model– a language of eight dynamic, interrelated visual tools each based, respectively, on eight cognitive processes. He has focused his professional development exclusively on whole school change from pre-K to 12, and for facilitating collaborative leadership.
He is the author of PD resources for implementing Thinking Maps– and authored and edited 6 professional books and dozens of other published works on the practice of visual tools, leadership and Thinking Maps. Most recently David published through Teachers College Press with lead author Shelly Counsell: “Drawing out Learning with Thinking Maps” presented practical Pre-k to grade 3 research. He is presently CEO of Thinking Schools International, having worked in schools and systems such as Ethiopia, South Africa, the UK, Pakistan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and across the US from LA to Mississippi to inner city New York City.
David’s Substack weekly journal
Thinking in Maps
Sites:
Research:
This episode is sponsored by Thinking Foundation: supports the transformation of early childhood through adult education by implem
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