Reflection on Essay on Reasoning

As I reflect about all I gained from the research and applications of the seven patterns of reasoning, I am convinced that reasoning is a most worthy learning target for teachers to emphasize. By researching not only Dr. Rick Stiggins' theories about reasoning, but other noted educators as well, I had a strong foundation for evaluating my own teaching of reasoning. I found that by targeting the various reasoning patterns with specific teaching and assessment methods, a great variety of offerings for students can be provided - all of which promote reasoning.

By evaluating my own specific teaching practices through this assignment, I found that I do integrate lots of reasoning. However, with just a little more forethought and planning, I can tap into many more types of reasoning. For instance, carefully constructed deductive and inductive essay questions, use of thinking maps and graphic organizers for comparative, classification, and analytical reasoning, and student synthesis of disciplines and skills to create products, all can develop student reasoning.

Concerning assessment, I learned that different assessments match better with different reasoning targets. For example, selected response questions could be used for assessing analytical reasoning and classification. A clearly defined essay requirement could be used effectively with an evaluative and informed argument that students must defend. Creation of a product like a Venn Diagram or multimedia presentation could measure comparative and synthesis reasoning. All of the examples and practices are very applicable to my teaching situation and field. The idea of varying activities and assessments really appeals to me because it maintains a high student interest level, and with the research provided by completion of this assignment, prominent and accepted education thought proves its merit.