Bridging Learning
Unlocking Cognitive Potential In and Out of the Classroom
- Mandia Mentis - Massey University, New Zealand
- Marilyn Dunn-Bernstein - Educational Consultant, Texas
- Marténe Mentis - Design Consultant
- Mervyn Skuy
'Using real-world examples and applications, this book makes cognitive psychology and cognitive education accessible to all who work with children and other learners. I immediately felt more confident in applying my new thinking and understanding to my practice'—Wendy Holley, School Psychologist, Bend-La Pine School District, OR
Based on Instrumental Enrichment (IE), a cognitive education approach pioneered by internationally renowned psychologist and child development expert Reuven Feuerstein, this updated volume provides practitioners with much-needed techniques to develop students' thinking skills and "bridge" these skills to the home and community.
This user-friendly book outlines fourteen core thinking skills that increase students' cognitive capacity, including organization, comparison, categorization, and problem solving. The authors demonstrate how teachers can mediate learning in the classroom and help parents, social workers, counsellors, and other adults who work with youth to extend learning beyond the classroom. Each chapter features:
- An introduction to and description of a specific skill
- Examples and applications for formal and informal learning contexts
- An outline of how the skill aligns with Feuerstein's theories of Mediated Learning and Cognitive Modifiability
Expanded to include an overview of many IE-related research studies and quotes to stimulate reflection on each skill, this second edition of Bridging Learning is a dynamic resource for creative educators dedicated to enhancing thinking skills in all learners.
"A practical and useful resource. Covers 14 specific thinking skills, explains why each skill is important, and describes when and where we use it. The book presents strategies for use in school and gives bridging activities to use at home and in the community."
"This book seamlessly blends theory with practical, real-life applications and activities that can be completed quickly and easily in both school and home/community settings. This encourages a partnership between all stakeholders to help students succeed."
"The idea that cognitive potential can be unlocked has become a powerful and influential idea in all sectors of education, be it early childhood education or higher education. This book consists of a series of activities framed by the most up-to-date thinking and research on cognition and mediation. The book makes available to parents, teachers, caregivers, community workers, and counselors a thought-provoking stance on thinking and learning and easy-to-apply techniques for getting it right."
"Using real-world examples and applications, this book makes cognitive psychology and cognitive education accessible to all those who work with children and other learners. The format is easy to follow, as the authors explore one key cognitive strategy in each chapter. I immediately felt more confident in applying my new thinking and understanding to my practice."
"A valuable companion text for educators and others utilizing Reuven Feuerstein's programs and methods for the teaching of thinking. The authors provide practical examples and clearly illustrate how to effectively mediate each of the fourteen areas of thinking identified by Feuerstein."
"Effective learning of thinking strategies and skills requires inspired bridging to meaningful examples. The authors share exciting up-to-date examples, particularly for bridging generally to all learning, to personal and community health, and to technology."
