sion statements.” Many educators believe the “thinking movement” has
been succeeded by the “authentic assessment” movement, not realizing that
thinking is central to the authentic practices they now pursue so fervently.
Experience tells us it takes about three to four years of well-defined instruction
with qualified teachers and carefully constructed curriculum materials
for the habits of mind to “succeed.” After three or four years in a school,
we’ve started to observe significant and enduring changes in students’
behavior.
If students are to “habituate” the habits of mind, they must encounter
them again and again throughout the elementary and secondary years in
every subject and in every classroom. Educators must teach the habits of
mind and thinking skills directly. We know that the amount of time on
task affects students’ academic learning. This relationship also is true for
acquiring thinking skills. When thinking becomes a goal of instruction,
teachers and administrators place greater value on learning activities that
stimulate cognitive processes.
Time is also an issue because some students come from homes, classrooms,
or schools where the habits of mind are not valued. These children
can be dismayed by and resistant to a teacher’s invitations to use the habits.
Time and consistent instruction are necessary to overcome this reluctance.
A RICH, RESPONSIVE ENVIRONMENT