Barry Smith - Learning about Learning

It has been a hectic few weeks as I think I’ve mentioned ad infinitum recently with the launch of ALPs, SQH Unit 3 and other ‘enjoyable’ pressures.   However, I think I was beginning to feel a bit empty in the fuel tank, the red light was certainly on.  I knew that the brain was threatening to become full of broken biscuits because I hadn’t done any reading for three or four days, a sure fire sign.  I also hadn’t done any drumming for two weeks prior to tonight so it was great to go bash them to bits and switch fully on to another ‘mode’ of brain activity. I’m feeling re-invigorated now and ready for the next few hectic days.  It really is amazing what a completely different challenge and focus does to help order the rest of the brain!

I’m going to the ’Thinking about Thinking’ inter-authority conference at Murrayfield tomorrow.  I’m excited about attending because I believe that teaching thinking skills explicitly is an idea that will be developed further in the coming years in Scotland.  I’m convinced it has huge potential for the development of self awareness and emotional literacy in young people and adults.  There is a keynote speech from Brian Boyd who was one of my tutors at teaching college and someone for whom I have great respect.

I’ll no doubt report back on that tomorrow.