Hwang, Naomi
ET
Briggs, S. (2015, March 7). Deeper learning: What is it and why is it so effective? Retrieved June 13, 2019, from informED website: https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/deep-learning/
Summary: In this article, Briggs discusses a couple of definitions of deeper learning, and argues that deeper learning is what educators have always been striving for. However, the saying “easier said than done” applies. While most educators want to use deep learning strategies, their efforts have been hindered by the need to prepare students for important assessments and a lack of time to plan and teach curriculum. A number of deeper learning strategies are mentioned and discussed throughout the article, sometimes supplemented by the results of research studies. Examples of these include changing the format of assessments to promote higher level thinking and having students work in groups. In the end, Briggs suggests that deep learning needs to be a priority not only at a classroom or school-wide level, but also the local, state, and national levels for it to become the norm.
Evaluation: I felt that this medium-length article was a good introduction into the idea of deeper learning. While Briggs did not go into detail for all of the strategies she mentioned, she gave good examples and explanations for the ones that were more complex. I especially appreciated her perspective and reflection on why deeper learning has been a struggle to implement despite being “an old dog by a new name”.