Primary Years, Tarneit

Taking Risks in Learning: A Path to Deeper Understanding

The International Baccalaureate – Primary Years Program Learner Profile encourages students to be risk-takers.

The article below from The Will to Teach by Elise Phillips, outlines well why this is important and what it may look like in our classrooms. When students engage in risk-taking in their learning, they break free from their comfort zones and venture into the realm of deeper understanding and personal growth.

Risk-taking in learning doesn’t mean engaging in dangerous or reckless activities. Instead, it refers to the willingness to embrace uncertainty, to ask questions, to challenge established norms, and to make mistakes. It’s about trying new methods, exploring unfamiliar concepts, and experimenting with different strategies.

Taking risks in learning is crucial for several reasons. It fosters curiosity, encourages creative thinking, and promotes resilience. When students adopt a risk-taking mindset, they are more likely to make significant discoveries and develop innovative solutions.

Teachers play a crucial role in fostering a culture of risk-taking. They can achieve this by creating a supportive learning environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning rather than failures. Educators can also model risk-taking behaviour, showing students that it’s okay to take chances and make mistakes. 

Risk-taking is a vital component of effective learning. By encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones, we are not just teaching them content; we are also equipping them with the skills and attitudes necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.