LearnLead’s learning model provides a structure that respects and deepens what parents and teachers already know, fires their creativity and empowers them to engage children in playful activities that promote math skills and language development.
Observation Tools Drive the 3-part Learning Model
Explore • Discover • Discuss
Observation Tools define line, shape, color and pattern in ways that support adults as they learn to use what they already know - and children are learning - into comfortable, creative discovery and conversation. The structure strengthens basic learning skills and encourages playful experiential learning.
Observation • Critical Thinking • Communication Skills
Step 1. EXPLORE
Observation Tools Help You Gather Information
Line directs the eye and provides basic data
Vertical = height, stature, importance, growth, size
Horizontal = width, plane, horizon, restful, size
Diagonal= movement, action, direction
Curvy = embracing, warm
Shape defines how lines connect to create boundaries.
Color suggests mood, emotion, culture and history.
Pattern creates rhythm and reflects culture.
Step 2. DISCOVER
Compare and Contrast invites adults and children to interpret what each sees based on what each already knows, imagines or has experienced.
Step 3. DISCUSS
Asking questions, listening closely to answers, and responding based on what your child says are the keys to good conversations, playful learning and creative thinking.
Factual (closed) questions based on what your child already knows or is learning, allows him/her to apply what they know or are learning a new context. Open-ended questions and idea-sharing are invitations to recall experiences. and/or use imagination. Exchanges are not right or wrong—just interesting. Play the “what if” games with elements that interest you or your child. Wait time is an important part of having a conversation. Allow your child time to think and form answers. Combining different kinds of questions with “wait time” encourages critical thinking, discovery, new ideas, learning …..and lots of fun!
Building on what adults already know is as important as new information.
The learning model proved useful to parents and to teachers.
The learning model is an effective enrichment strategy with multiple curricula and/or informal learning settings. (See The CDM study for a third party analysis.)
Line, shape, color and pattern are the core observation tools.
Recognizing different kinds of lines prove effective in helping children recognize and draw letters and numbers, an unanticipated impact on small motor control.
Lines and shapes have universal meanings.
Colors and patterns often have distinctive meanings in different cultures.
Recognizing these differences offers an objective way to recognize and celebrate cultural diversity. Work on diversity and cultural competency using the learning model is in progress.
Lessons Learned
The magic is in the lines!
Different kinds of lines have different meanings. Adults know this intuitively but rarely use this knowledge as a strategy to engage children in discovery and learning.
As adults and children recognize how lines come together to make letters, numbers, shapes, forms, and patterns they can disaggregate and reassemble lines in a variety of ways. The process empowers a sense of control and fires imagination and excitement about learning.
