Resources and Links:

Description: In the words of Loris Malaguzzi,“Stand aside for a while and leave room for learning, observe carefully what children do, and then, if you have understood well, perhaps teaching will be different from before.” Join into a conversation about the value of documenting Learning Stories as experienced through a unique University and School Board research partnership. Webinar facilitators will discuss how observing and documenting learning in, about and for the environment alongside learners, is slowing down the process of learning and offering a space for thoughtful reflection about relationships, stewardship and global citizenship to inform pedagogy. Examples (artifacts, photos, narratives and video), references and practical strategies will be shared. As we know, learning moments are happening all around us all the time. Let your students help you tell the story of their learning. It’s not about getting the perfect photo, but rather about exploring the perfectness in moments of learning. Listen. Think about perspective. Focus. Enjoy and be prepared to be surprised! In the words of an inspired kindergarten scientist, “Observe. It’s like using your senses but in a fancier way.”

Lotje Hives is a professional learning facilitator from Northern Ontario. She brings perspective most recently as Education Officer with the Ministry of Education of Ontario, and as Acting Vice Principal of Program working alongside educators and students. Her leadership and research interests include the process of pedagogical documentation, and the Environment as Teacher – indoors and out. Astrid Steele is an Associate Professor in the Schulich School of Education at Nipissing University, in North Bay, Ontario. Prior to this, she was a teacher in both elementary and secondary schools (including at a First Nations reserve school), and she has taught adult education at the college level and worked with youth at risk in outdoor education settings.