By Brenda Plowman
Embedding Student Inquiry in the Learning Commons
Abstract
With strong senior administration support for self-guided professional development and renewed goals focused on achieving excellence, ensuring equity, promoting well-being and enhancing public confidence, these curriculum leaders are equipping themselves and their colleagues to move forward.
Student-led inquiry in the Learning Commons with embedded technology became their focus. The students had a good background in questioning and collaboration and teachers were prepared for guided intervention. They gleaned ideas from current experts and board documents, and were guided by OLA, LAA and SLA documents. A coach from their own district introduced them to a program called Symbaloo which they embraced and utilized as a hands-on tool not only for teachers but for students as well.
These school leaders are on a quest to develop curiosity and build life-long learning skills, with the guidance of and in collaboration with, their teacher-librarians, while enhancing their own professional development.
Brenda Plowman was born in Windsor, Ontario and attended the University of Windsor where she received both her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and English as well as a Bachelor of Education degree. She has published a research thesis in the University of Windsor library while attaining her Masters in Education.
Mrs. Plowman is a Vice-Principal with the Greater Essex County District School Board in Windsor, Ontario. During her 13 year career in education, 8 years have been spent as an administrator. She is a curriculum leader who purposefully facilitates school change to support student achievement. Mrs. Plowman currently resides in Windsor with her husband and daughter, who is also attending the University of Windsor. She enjoys travelling with her family, sewing, cooking and spending time with friends and family.