We freely talk about strengths and weaknesses when it comes to sports, games, hobbies, and, of course, surviving a zombie apocalypse. So why not have good conversations about our learning strengths and weaknesses? For a number of reasons, it can often be difficult to have purposeful conversations about learning that will actually facilitate progress and achievement. Still, collaboration between students, teachers, parents, administrators, and counselors is one of the most crucial elements in maximizing student potential, and collaboration is a core principle of Mind Matters at Southeast Psych. When students have a clear understanding of both their learning successes and learning challenges, they are able to be much more engaged in their individual learning process. Therefore, tools for building bridges between students, home, and school are a very essential piece of an educator’s skillset.
Many school districts are showing their commitment to involve parents and families in the education system, such as the Chicago Public School district’s addition of the Office of Community and Family Engagement. Mind Matters at Southeast Psych is addressing this important component by offering a professional development course called “Student Learning Partnership”. This course equips educators with the evidence-based tools necessary for capitalizing on collaboration and conversations about learning. By utilizing a neurodevelopmental approach, this course allows educators to identify the underlying causes of student struggles as well as strategies that can be applied when challenges arise. The ability to observe student behavior and learning through a neurodevelopmental lens and then translate that information into a conversation truly allows students to grow through the learning process.
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple conversation; actually making it a point to talk about individual learning with students can have widespread positive effects.
Stay connected to Mind Matters at Southeast Psych by visiting the Facebook page and following @MindMatters_SEP on Twitter. Or, for more information about professional development courses, contact Jennifer Parker, Professional Development Coordinator, at jparker@southeastpsych.com.
