By Carol Koechlin & Sandi Zwaan
The Big Think: Reflecting, Reacting, and Realizing Improved Learning
Abstract
Koechlin and Zwaan share three of nine dynamic metacognitive strategies for students and teachers of any ability or grade level, to assess learning experiences – “what they know, how they learned it, and how they can improve the learning” – the “Big Think” from their classic book of that title, defined and discussed in the paper. The strategies present a “vehicle and thermometer” for whole school improvement.
Carol Koechlin and Sandi Zwaan are experienced educators who after formal retirement continue to contribute to the field of information literacy and school librarianship writing books, articles for professional journals, facilitating on-line courses, and presenting workshops in Canada and the United States. Their current work is to help schools address the needs of learners by teaching questioning skills and designing ‘high think’ assignments and projects that ignite student interest and utilize collaborative learning environments. Working with Dr David Loertscher, Koechlin and Zwaan have developed foundations for the transformation of school libraries and computer labs into a Learning Commons.