Perspective taking is challenging for ALL of us, but we all know some of our students really are just more rigid in their thinking than others. Enter the superhero skill of the 21st century – flexible thinking. So, how do we cultivate this mental superpower in our little learners? Let’s dive into some practical strategies backed by the wizards of research.
Understanding Flexible Thinking
Before we jump into the strategies, let’s take a quick pit stop to understand what flexible thinking really is. It’s like mental gymnastics, the ability to adapt, shift gears, and view situations from different angles. According to Diamond and Lee (2011), flexible thinking involves being able to switch between concepts, consider multiple perspectives, and problem-solve creatively.
Without further explanation, here’s 10 ways to foster flexible thinking within your students.
1. Embrace Diverse Perspectives in Literature
Stories are magical portals to different worlds and perspectives. Integrate diverse literature into your curriculum to expose students to a range of characters, cultures, and ways of thinking. This not only promotes empathy but also challenges their own thinking patterns (Ganea et al., 2011). From folktales to contemporary novels, a diverse literary diet encourages flexible thinking.
2. Incorporate Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness isn’t just for adults seeking serenity; it’s a powerful tool for children, too. Research by Zoogman et al. (2014) suggests that mindfulness practices enhance cognitive flexibility. Simple activities like mindful breathing or short guided meditations can help students develop the ability to shift their focus and thinking patterns. A great time to try this might be after a hectic transition, like coming back from PE or recess.
3. Encourage Creative Problem-Solving Challenges
Flex those problem-solving muscles! Engage your students in activities that require them to think outside the box. Whether it’s a classroom conundrum or a real-world issue, promoting creative problem-solving helps foster flexible thinking (Runco & Jaeger, 2012). Give them a taste of the satisfaction that comes with finding unconventional solutions.
4. Gamify Learning
Who says learning can’t be fun? Introduce educational games that challenge students to strategize and adapt. According to a study by Franceschini et al. (2013), playing video games can enhance cognitive flexibility. Incorporate board games, puzzles, and digital educational games to make learning an adventure in flexible thinking.
5. Build a Growth Mindset Culture
Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset tells us that the belief in the ability to grow and develop is crucial for learning (Dweck, 2006). Foster a growth mindset culture in your classroom where making mistakes is viewed as part of the learning process. This mindset shift encourages children to embrace challenges and persist in the face of difficulties, promoting flexible thinking.
Check out this growth mindset toolkit for questions, games, activities, and anchor charts.
6. Mix Up Learning Styles
Variety is the spice of learning! Cater to different learning styles within your classroom. Some students thrive in hands-on activities, while others excel in visual or auditory learning. By providing a mix of learning styles, you’re not just accommodating diverse needs but also challenging students to adapt and approach information in various ways (Pashler et al., 2008).
7. Introduce Role Reversal
Turn the tables and let your students take on the teacher role! Assign them a topic to teach to the class. This exercise not only boosts their confidence but also requires them to think about the subject matter from a different perspective. According to the research of Rosenshine and Stevens (1986), teaching others enhances understanding of the material.
8. Engage in Socratic Discussions
Encourage Socratic questioning during class discussions. Ask open-ended questions that require students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information. This not only hones their critical thinking skills but also promotes flexible thinking by challenging them to consider different viewpoints (Paul & Elder, 2006).
9. Foster a Safe Environment for Expression
Children are more likely to experiment with different ideas when they feel safe to express themselves. Create a classroom environment where students know their thoughts and opinions are valued. According to a study by Saft & Pianta (2001), a positive and supportive classroom climate encourages risk-taking and exploration of different ideas.
10. Integrate Cross-Curricular Connections
Break down the silos of subjects! Encourage interdisciplinary projects that require students to apply knowledge from different areas. Research by DeBoer (2004) suggests that cross-curricular connections enhance students’ ability to transfer knowledge, fostering flexible thinking as they see the interconnectedness of information.
BONUS TIP: 11. Reflect on Learning Journeys
Reflection is like the GPS for the brain. Regularly prompt students to reflect on their learning journeys. What worked? What didn’t? How could they approach a problem differently next time? Reflection builds metacognition, an essential component of flexible thinking (Karpicke & Blunt, 2011). Do you host a daily or weekly closing circle? This is a great time to practice the skill of reflection and build it in to your schedule.
