Uncovering the 6 Facets of Understanding with the Comprehensive PDF Guide
As educators, one of our primary goals is to ensure that students truly understand what they are learning. However, understanding is a complex process that involves much more than simple memorization. In order to truly understand a concept, students must be able to analyze it from multiple angles, connect it to other concepts, and apply it in various situations.
This is where the six facets of understanding come in. Coined by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe in their book Understanding by Design, the six facets provide a framework for understanding that encompasses six different aspects of learning. But how can we apply these facets in the classroom? That’s where the Comprehensive PDF Guide comes in.
What is the Comprehensive PDF Guide?
The Comprehensive PDF Guide is a free resource provided by Concordia University that helps educators delve deeper into the six facets of understanding. The guide includes detailed explanations of each facet, along with activities and strategies for applying them in the classroom.
The 6 Facets of Understanding
Let’s take a closer look at each of the six facets of understanding and how they can be incorporated into your teaching.
1. Explanation
Explanation refers to a student’s ability to provide a thorough and accurate explanation of a concept. To help students develop this facet of understanding, try using analogy or metaphor to help them connect new concepts to ones they already understand.
2. Interpretation
Interpretation involves analyzing and explaining the meaning of a concept. To develop this facet, have students compare and contrast different interpretations of a text or art piece.
3. Application
Application involves using a concept in a new situation. To develop this facet, have students apply what they have learned in a real-world scenario, such as a case study.
4. Perspective
Perspective involves seeing a concept from different viewpoints. To develop this facet, have students analyze a concept from the perspective of different cultures or historical time periods.
5. Empathy
Empathy involves seeing a concept from another person’s point of view. To develop this facet, have students write from the perspective of a character or historical figure.
6. Self-Knowledge
Self-knowledge involves reflecting on one’s own learning and understanding. To develop this facet, have students keep a learning journal where they reflect on what they have learned and how they have grown.
Conclusion
By incorporating these six facets of understanding into your teaching, you can help students truly grasp the concepts they are learning and apply them in a meaningful way. The Comprehensive PDF Guide is a valuable resource for helping you do just that. So why not give it a try and see how it can enhance your teaching practice?
