Process

A Transformational Design Process

There are four clearly articulated phases that we have identified for working with Thinking Schools over time (see diagram below).

During the interactive two-day seminar “Growing a Thinking School” participants experience, practice and analyze different approaches to developing their vision for change.  The feedback during the two days is collected using visual tools and then immediately used by the drive team to create a transformational design for implementation,

The diagram below is the basic pathway for creating a school wide design. We will work with you every step of the way.  Each phase uses visual tools, key questions, and processes in the “Growing Thinking Schools” participants’ guide.

You should also refer to the Case Studies on this website that give a good insight into the process that has worked for many schools.

Here is a description of the overall process:

STEP 1:  An interactive 2 day seminar led by a TSI trained consultant is attended by faculty members and the drive team to learn about the Thinking Schools approach and begin creating a design for implementation.

STEP 2: A whole-school implementation design is developed by the drive team with the support of the TSI consultant.  This is a comprehensive design that also includes a decision to focus on one area, or  Dimension of Thinking, such as “cognitive processes” or “dispositions” or “creativity” as described in the Growing Thinking Schools guide.

STEP 3:  The implementation often is initiated by implementing a model, approach, or program related to a particular area.   For example, some schools focus on the cognitive processes dimension by implementing the Thinking Maps® model.  Others have started by focusing on the dispositions dimension by using the Habits of Mind® approach.

This design process can be adapted to each schools individual needs, yet the goal is similar: to develop a multi-year vision and plan for integrating the development of thinking into the ethos, or culture of schools.  Refer to the fourteen Criteria for Thinking Schools as a starting point for developing transformational designs.

An overview of the Accreditation Process for Thinking Schools – Professor Bob Burden, University of Exeter

An overview of the Advanced Accreditation for Thinking Schools – Professor Bob Burden, University of Exeter