In Search of Deeper Learning

1. Deeper Learning Integrates Mastery, Identity, and Creativity

In particular, we came to think that our own distinct vision of deep learning—not simply in school, but in life—emerges at the intersection of three virtues: mastery, identity, and creativity.

Three Virtues of Learning. Deeper learning transcends rote memorization, emphasizing the integration of mastery (knowledge and skills), identity (personal connection and relevance), and creativity (application and innovation). This holistic approach fosters a more meaningful and lasting educational experience.

Mastery, Identity, and Creativity. Mastery involves developing a deep understanding of content and the ability to transfer knowledge to new contexts. Identity connects learning to students' personal interests and values, making it more engaging and relevant. Creativity encourages students to apply their knowledge in innovative ways, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Powerful Learning Experiences. The most impactful learning experiences occur when these three virtues intersect, creating a synergistic effect that enhances understanding, motivation, and the ability to apply knowledge in meaningful ways. This integration prepares students not only for academic success but also for the demands of twenty-first-century life.

2. The "Grammar of Schooling" Impedes Deeper Learning

Schools are actively trying to shed the long hand of the past, but have not yet arrived at the future.

Historical Constraints. The traditional "grammar of schooling," established in the late 19th century, includes age-graded classrooms, disciplinary silos, and teacher-centered pedagogy. These structures often hinder deeper learning by promoting passive learning and rote memorization.

External Pressures. External forces, such as standardized testing, district-mandated curricula, and parental expectations, further constrain deeper learning by emphasizing breadth over depth and prioritizing test scores over genuine understanding. These pressures often lead to a narrowing of the curriculum and a focus on test preparation.

Need for Systemic Change. Overcoming these impediments requires a fundamental shift in the way schools are organized and how teaching is approached, moving away from a knowledge-transmission model toward one that fosters critical thinking, engagement, and creativity. This shift necessitates addressing both structural constraints and the underlying beliefs and values that shape educational practices.

3. Project-Based Learning Fosters Creativity and Engagement

With this project, it’s about taking something from inside yourself and saying, ‘I want to get this done because I want to get this done, not I want to get this done because I want to get an A-plus,’

Hands-on, Minds-on. Project-based learning (PBL) engages students in creating original work, connecting learning to real-world applications, and fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills. This approach can be highly effective in promoting deeper learning by integrating mastery, identity, and creativity.

Dewey High's Model. Dewey High exemplifies successful PBL by integrating technical and vocational elements with a liberal arts curriculum, empowering teachers to design curricula that reflect their unique knowledge and passions, and fostering a culture of contribution and community engagement.

Potential Pitfalls. However, PBL can also fall short if it lacks rigor, clear learning goals, and opportunities for students to develop foundational skills. Confusing "hands-on" with "minds-on" can lead to superficial engagement without genuine understanding.

4. No Excuses Schools Prioritize Mastery and Equity

We’re trying to create a context where people are collaborating together to create products of lasting value, which often morph into products of use to the community.

High Expectations and Structure. No Excuses schools emphasize strict discipline, high academic expectations, and a focus on preparing students for college. This model aims to provide disadvantaged students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.

No Excuses High's Approach. No Excuses High exemplifies this model by implementing a highly structured curriculum, providing extensive teacher training and support, and fostering a culture of hard work and accountability. This approach has led to impressive gains in test scores and college acceptance rates.

Potential Tradeoffs. However, the No Excuses model can also come at the cost of student engagement, creativity, and a sense of personal identity. The emphasis on control and conformity may stifle students' intrinsic motivation and limit their opportunities for self-expression.

5. International Baccalaureate Balances Breadth and Depth

We’re trying to create a context where people are collaborating together to create products of lasting value, which often morph into products of use to the community.

Holistic Education. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program seeks to provide a well-rounded education that balances breadth and depth, encourages critical thinking, and promotes international-mindedness. The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) requires students to engage in rigorous coursework, complete an extended essay, and participate in creativity, action, and service (CAS) projects.

IB High's Implementation. IB High exemplifies successful implementation of the IBDP by fostering a culture of inquiry, providing extensive teacher support, and emphasizing student-centered instruction. This approach has led to high levels of student engagement and achievement.

Potential Challenges. However, the IB program can also be challenging to implement effectively, particularly in schools serving disadvantaged students. Without adequate support and resources, the program may become overly focused on test preparation and fail to foster genuine intellectual curiosity and creativity.

6. Electives and Extracurriculars Offer Powerful Learning Experiences

We’re trying to create a context where people are collaborating together to create products of lasting value, which often morph into products of use to the community.

Beyond the Core. Electives and extracurricular activities often provide opportunities for deeper learning that are lacking in core academic classes. These activities allow students to pursue their passions, develop real-world skills, and engage in collaborative projects.

Apprenticeship Model. Many extracurricular activities, such as theater, journalism, and debate, operate on an apprenticeship model, in which students learn from experienced mentors and gradually take on more responsibility. This model fosters a sense of ownership, creativity, and community.

Bridging the Gap. By infusing core academic classes with the qualities of electives and extracurriculars, schools can create more engaging and meaningful learning experiences for all students. This may involve incorporating project-based learning, providing more student choice, and fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.

7. Deeper Teaching Requires a Shift in Stance

We’re trying to create a context where people are collaborating together to create products of lasting value, which often morph into products of use to the community.

Beyond Transmission. Deeper teaching goes beyond simply transmitting knowledge to students. It involves creating opportunities for students to think critically, solve problems, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.

Key Elements of Deeper Teaching:

• Substantive knowledge of the subject matter
• A view of the subject as open-ended and evolving
• A focus on inquiry and exploration
• A commitment to student empowerment

Seminal Learning Experiences. Teachers who embrace deeper teaching often have had transformative learning experiences that have shaped their understanding of their subject and their role as educators. These experiences inspire them to create similar opportunities for their students.

8. Systemic Change is Needed to Support Deeper Learning

We’re trying to create a context where people are collaborating together to create products of lasting value, which often morph into products of use to the community.

Beyond Individual Classrooms. While individual teachers can create powerful learning experiences in their classrooms, systemic change is needed to support deeper learning at scale. This requires addressing the structural constraints and cultural norms that hinder innovation and equity.

Key Areas for Systemic Change:

• Curriculum design
• Assessment practices
• Teacher preparation and professional development
• School leadership and culture

A Call to Action. By transforming these systems, we can create a more equitable and engaging educational system that prepares all students for success in the twenty-first century.

Last updated: March 3, 2025