Delighted
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I have found this book invaluable (along with Petty's previous book 'Teaching Today') in providing me with numerous ideas for active teaching. The ideas can be adapted for almost any subject and mean delivering sessions is now so much more enjoyable. The research findings behind these ideas makes so much sense and has completely changed my approach to teaching. Geoff Petty's website is worth a visit for additional information and video lectures.
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essential for teachers
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If you only buy one book about teaching - get this one.
Teachers are bombarded with books about teaching which claim success for the authors pet ideas. Rarely is any proper evidence offered.
This book is quite different. It simply looks at all the research evidence available and gives practical ways to implement best practice.
Petty has deep insight into the way children learn and has distilled key ideas and general principles.
He recognises that teachers do not improve by simply repeating other people's good ideas. He recommends (and gives evidence to back it up) that schools develop a culture of teachers discussing learning, trying out different ideas and sharing best practice. It is this dynamic which creates excellent schools - not the implementation of the latest government edict.
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Inspiring and insightful
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I used this text to support a continuing professional development course in active learning that I taught to practicing teachers. The focus on an evidence-based approach was very effective in convincing the class that these methods can be applied in a manner that promotes greater student achievement, holistic development and an engaging, rewarding challenge to the teachers themselves.
There is a wealth of useful information condensed in this book with an immediate examination of the methodologies that are shown to have the greatest positive impact on teaching and learning. This encourages experimentation from the beginning and several of my students took to "Assessment for Learning" with a passion. In fact, formative assessment is examined throughout the text.
The structure of learning is thoroughly examined with context provided by a useful summary of the SOLO taxonomy. This emphasis on structure is continued throughout the text and on completion of our course most teachers had gained considerable insight into the epistemology of their subjects in a way that allowed them to encourage critical thinking skills in their students.
There are chapters on teaching "thinking skills" that should be read by anyone engaged in teaching as they are very thought provoking and provide practical advice as to how to add these skills to typical classes. The book is supported by an excellent website that provides additional information and useful handouts.
I have no hesitation in recommending this book as a thought provoking text. It is unfortunate that there are some editing errors that can irritate, and poor organisation in places - don't get frustrated though; I am convinced that careful reading of this book will add a richness to your teaching.
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