ERRR #025. Daniel Willingham on When We Can Trust the Experts
Jan 1, 2019
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In a fascinating discussion, Daniel Willingham, a cognitive psychology professor at the University of Virginia and education author, examines the role of expertise in combating job automation effects and promoting educational equity. He encourages educators to critically evaluate research, distinguishing between 'research-based' and 'research-inspired' claims. Willingham also discusses Montessori education, the importance of counterfactual thinking, and the need for incremental improvements in teaching methods, all while advocating for a transformative mindset towards science in education.
Establishing clear boundaries is essential for teachers to maintain their well-being while enhancing student relationships and learning outcomes.
Educators must critically evaluate research claims to differentiate between valid findings and misleading information, promoting informed decision-making in the classroom.
Willingham emphasizes the importance of balancing evidence-based practices with experimentation to foster professional growth and continuous improvement in teaching.
Deep dives
The Importance of Teacher Boundaries
Establishing boundaries is crucial for new teachers to maintain a healthy work-life balance and professional integrity. Setting clear boundaries can help prevent burnout and ensure that educators prioritize their own well-being while effectively serving their students. This practice allows teachers to create a structured environment where their expectations are clearly communicated, facilitating better relationships with students and colleagues. Moreover, teachers who establish boundaries can cultivate a more focused teaching approach, leading to improved learning outcomes.
Evaluating Educational Research
Teachers often encounter a plethora of research claims, which can be overwhelming and misleading if not properly scrutinized. Many educators feel frustrated by the abundance of studies presented as evidence when making decisions in the classroom, particularly when they may not reflect their specific contexts or practices. Daniel Willingham emphasizes the need for teachers to critically evaluate this research, learning to differentiate between legitimate findings and those that may lack sound scientific backing. By equipping educators with tools to assess research quality, they can make informed, evidence-based decisions that enhance instructional effectiveness.
Understanding Meta-Beliefs in Education
Willingham highlights the influence of meta-beliefs on educational practices, reminding educators of the differing philosophical perspectives on child development and learning. For instance, a more romantic perspective prioritizes child-led learning, while an enlightenment viewpoint emphasizes structured guidance from adults. These foundational beliefs shape how teachers approach their classrooms and can affect their openness to new ideas and methods. Recognizing and reflecting on these meta-beliefs can help educators create responsive teaching strategies that address the diverse needs of their students.
Practical Guidelines for Effective Change
Willingham outlines practical strategies for educators to consider when contemplating changes in their teaching approaches, notably the 'Strip It and Flip It' framework. This involves distilling proposed changes to a simple statement that outlines what will be done (X), the expected outcomes (Z), and their probability (Y). By clarifying these elements, teachers can assess whether an educational intervention is worth pursuing and gauge its effectiveness based on reliable criteria. This focused approach not only promotes thoughtful decision-making but also reinforces accountability for the chosen educational practices.
The Role of Experimentation in Teaching
Willingham advocates for a balance between following established research and allowing for experimentation in educational settings. He acknowledges that while evidence-based practices are essential, teachers also benefit from trying new methods that may or may not be explicitly supported by research. This iterative process of refinement promotes professional growth and fosters innovation in the classroom, as educators explore what works best for their students in practice. Ultimately, this dual approach encourages a culture of continuous improvement within educational institutions.