St Brendan’s vision for learning and our understanding of children as learners is outlined below:
LEARNING
Learning is a developmental change in understanding and behaviour that results from interaction with new ideas and knowledge.
Learning occurs by understanding and doing and learners should be provided with opportunities to put both together.
Learning involves action, understanding and performance.
Learners can use a variety of approaches to learn and the best learning occurs when learners are presented with opportunities that best suit their type of intelligence.
Intelligence can be developed and can be exhibited in many ways.
Learning involves using language to talk about language (metalanguage)
Learning is an active process and is a social activity
Learning involves taking risks
Learning is enhanced when feedback is timely, supportive, constructive and instructive
Learning is contextual and needs prior knowledge upon which to base further learning. It takes time to learn with plenty of time for re-examination according to individual characteristics.
Motivation is a key component in learning - learning should be interesting and challenging
LEARNERS
Learners make their own meaning by building on knowledge and skills
Cooperative learning skills need to be taught and developed
Learners need to use generic learning structures
Learners need the opportunity to express their learning in different ways which leads to craftsmanship and pride in achievement - individual attitudes and values should be acknowledged and valued
Learners need to be equipped for a future of continuous discovery and change
Learners need to be producers of their own knowledge and products and to be self-directed
Learners learn in an environment where self-esteem is nurtured
