Today Division 7 was introduced to Learning in Depth (or “LiD”) for the first time. There was much excitement in the air as they learned that this would be a year-long project where they would get to take the journey from learner to expert to teacher.

What is LiD?

LiD is a dynamic program where each student is assigned a topic that they will explore for the whole year. The idea is that they will have the freedom to explore their topic from any perspective they choose at a pace that suits them. By the end of the year they will have acquired knowledge in great depth and breadth, rather than “learning a little about a lot”. We will be working on our LiD projects on average of an hour each week throughout the year.

Why LiD?

Some of the potential benefits of the LiD program:

• generates a deep understanding of the nature of knowledge
• engages imaginations and emotions in learning
• builds confidence and pride in knowledge
• develops expertise in organizational and research skills

How Can You Get Involved?

Another wonderful result of LiD is that it encourages you to learn along with your child. Parents often enjoy seeing their child’s progress in self-directed learning. While the idea is not to allow your enthusiasm (and perhaps superior research skills) to take over the project, I hope you will find joy in supporting your child explore their topic at home. Your child will occasionally be bringing home tasks that encourage them to reach out to family members, friends, and the community to learn more about their topic.

Where to Start?

Your child brought home a large list of possible LiD topics today. It also shows the criteria for choosing a suitable LiD topic. Students were asked to think carefully about the list and discuss it at home. On Monday, they will be asked to choose their top five topic choices; I will then select a topic for each student based on their interests. Please talk with your child and help them choose some topics that will hold their interest for the year.

I hope you are excited to join us on our LiD journey this year!