Goal Setting and Learning Conferences
Rosemary Saxon Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning
Goal Setting and Learning conferences
Educators at Lockleys North Primary School always seek evidence based research to improve student’s learning outcomes. Evidence shows that supporting students to set personal goals relating to learning behaviours will accelerate their development. “When teachers show students how to set mastery goals and show them what success on these goals looks like, there is an increased attention and motivation to succeed, and there is greater success.” Hattie, 2012. “Students who invest in their goals, demonstrate greater persistence, creativity and risk-taking in their achievement of those goals.” (Dewett, 2007; Lepper, Greene, & Nisbett,1973)
As part of every lesson, students at LNPS are introduced to clear teacher set goals (learning intentions). Our staff acknowledges the importance of “Approaches to Learning” to students being able to meet success criteria accompanying these learning intentions. The “Approaches to Learning” include: confidence, persistence, organisation, getting along and resilience.
The purposes of a Goal Setting and Learning Conference are: joint reflection on the student’s approaches to learning so far, analysis of the impact of this on his/her learning; and the collaborative setting of (next steps) goals between the student, family and teacher/s. The purpose of these conferences is not to focus on negative behaviours but rather future thinking - “What WILL support this student to learn at his/her best?”
Goal setting and learning conferences are currently under way at LNPS, with the following format:
Students, family members and teachers:
- Reflect upon strengths and progress regarding the student’s approaches to learning
- Identify areas for growth to improve learning outcomes
- Determine goals for next steps
- Discuss strategies to ensure goals are met
Research by Black and Wiliam’s (1998) examining classroom assessment found that activating students as owners of their own learning and involving them in assessment practices can produce extraordinary improvements in their achievement. Self-assessment, independent setting of goals and acting upon feedback within a sound, research-based pedagogical framework is proven to up to double achievement over a year of learning.
Throughout 2021, students, teachers and families will strive together to achieve optimum learning outcomes for all of our students from Reception to Year 7. If you have any wonderings about the research around Goal Setting and Learning Conferences please contact me at:
rosemary.mcleansaxon@schools.sa.edu.au
Approaches to Learning Confidence |
Recognises mistake making as part of learning |
Accepts challenges in learning |
Works independently |
Displays positive self-esteem |
Persistence |
Strives for personal best |
Stays on task as required |
Is self motivated |
Seeks help if necessary |
Organisation |
Sets and pursues goals |
Manages time successfully |
Is responsible for personal belongings |
Listens to and follows instructions |
Getting Along |
Respects rights and opinions of others |
Works cooperatively in groups |
Follows class agreements and school rules |
Helps others |
Resilience |
Remains calm in challenging situations |
Bounces back from disappointments |
Resolves conflict appropriately |
Uses various approaches to solving problems |