Observing For Learning
Observing for learning is a powerful concept that provides a framework for understanding how to nurture natural learning. Observing for Learning is based on the concept that "Everything is seen by the observer." We are each observers of our own inner and outer worlds as they arise.
All parents will remember what it felt like when they realized that they had to interpret the baby’s action in order to understand what their baby wanted. Parents have been observing for learning ever since. What the SelfDesign program intends to do is to help children and parents become aware of observing for learning and, through reflection, to deepen in understanding of the natural way of learning.
Observing for learning is about active engagement with the child as the child is and not how we might think the child ought to be. Observing for learning is NOT clinical observation nor is it a description of activities (e.g. “read a book,” “did math”). It is about what a child feels and thinks about. It is about the conversations that go on in the family, the questions and comments that a child makes that reveal his or her inner processes of learning.
Why do we observe for learning?
- We observe for learning in order to see the child and open a space of love.
- To see the child we must observe what the child is doing and not what we think he or she should be doing or what we want to see.
- We observe for learning in order to listen to what the child is saying, wondering about and asking.
- To hear the child we must listen to what the child is saying and not what we want to hear or to our own response.
- We observe for learning in order to encourage the child to unfold the emotional disposition for wonder.
- To encourage wonder in a child we must observe what teases the child's imagination, peaks interest and sustains attention.
- We observe for learning to help the child generate significance and meaning from daily experience.
- To help a child develop a history of significant learning and experience, we must observe what the child cares about and help create a context for caring.
- We observe for learning in order to assist the child to become aware of his or her own actions.
- To encourage awareness in a child, we must observe how the child connects to his or her experiences and to other people and what it is that makes these relationships significant and meaningful for the child.
- We observe for learning in order to learn from children the world they want to co-inspire and co-create with us.
- If we are to learn from the children we must observe how we participate in bringing forth a world together. We will live and learn together in mutual respect and support.
