Hermeneutics
A model for professional learning
Hermeneutical thinking starts with the idea that we come to know things through language. Our experiences can only be fully understood when we can put words to them and create meaning of what we know and understand. As we encounter new information and experiences and apply that knowledge, we expand our understanding of a topic or skill.
Dreamland Reading uses hermeneutics as the basis of our work with schools, to ensure teachers and students fully grasp important concepts. We strive for success for teachers, for leaders and most importantly for students.
Anterior Perceptions | Prior Knowledge
Existing knowledge that a person brings to a new activity of learning. A topic they understand completely, or a concept that they have previously learned about and are in process of integrating into their knowledge.
Posterior Perceptions | Develop a new understanding
Imagining what new knowledge means in practice, and how it will affect or change our understanding of a topic or concept. Incorporating new learning in practice to develop new knowledge. By applying new learning to prior knowledge, we challenge our own thinking and develop new insights and awareness.
Reflection
To integrate our posterior perceptions with our anterior perceptions, we must go through a process of reflection, which begins as soon as we are exposed to new knowledge, and is enhanced by deliberate activities that promote reflection and discussion with colleagues.
Craft of Teaching
Teachers hone their craft over a lifetime of service and dedication to students, families, and communities. While becoming a great teacher is not easy, it is tremendously rewarding and fun.
Dreamland Reading supports good teachers to become great teachers and accelerates the development of new teachers through workshops, in school support and reviewing student achievement data for instructional planning.
Craft of Leadership
School leadership requires many skills, and priorities change from day to day, depending what greets you when you walk in the building. Staying focused on student achievement, while simultaneously ensuring teachers are well supported and meeting the needs of the families who entrust the school to educate their children and keep them safe throughout the year, is no small feat.
Walk into a school where the leadership works well together and is inclusive of teachers in decision making, and you will find a school where the teachers enjoy themselves and students produce fabulous work.
