Learning by Conversing: Making Education Interactive

Dr Charles Margerison, Psychologist, Amazing People Trust

How did you learn your native language? By conversing. How did you develop friendships in your early years? By conversing.

If conversation is the most natural, effective way we learn, to communicate and connect, why is it not the core method for learning subjects like Maths, Science, History and Geography?

Can Do Kids Worldwide education resources are based on this principle. We support primary school students in learning about people, places and diverse countries and cultures through conversation.

The process enables students to learn with and from each other, fostering a supportive and interactive educational environment.

A Global, Conversational Classroom

Through our website, www.candokidsworldwide.com, we offer complimentary pilot lessons to schools across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australasia and the Americas.

To date, we have partnered with teachers in over 20 countries, and our global network is expanding rapidly.

I Can If I Plan

The Can Do Kids Worldwide (CDK) process extends beyond curriculum subjects, directly supporting character education.

It is based on the principle “I can if I plan what I want to do and learn in discussion with other students.”

This conversation learning based approach develops essential “Can Do” skills. That helps students understand and improve their performance. It also helps them support and uplift others.

By engaging in discussions about countries and cultures, students can develop respect for the views of others, as well as curiosity and resilience. These are all hallmarks of strong character.

Ten “Can Do” Student Learning Communication Skills

Teachers can help model key skills to help students become confident communicators. As a result, students should be able to say to themselves.

  1. I can learn to ask valuable questions that show I am really interested in the views and experiences of my fellow students.
  2. I can learn to listen well, to both the facts and feelings.
  3. I can learn to write clearly.
  4. I can learn to give others respect.
  5. I can learn to contribute to a group discussion.
  6. I can appreciate different views.
  7. I can learn from my experiences.
  8. I can overcome difficulties by problem-solving with others.
  9. I can persevere through challenging topics, using conversation to clarify complex ideas like Maths or Science.
  10. I can inspire my classmates by demonstrating curiosity and open-mindedness, making our classroom a supportive team.

The Benefits of Learning Through Discussion

Teachers can encourage these conversational lessons to integrate and discuss academic subjects, as illustrated in the following examples.

  • Maths: Comparing the cost of food and budgeting in different regions.
  • Science: Exploring the environmental science behind ecosystems.
  • Geography: Discussing the rivers, mountains and geographical features that shape a community.
  • History: Learning the history of people and how societies have developed over time.

Take the Next Step

The most profound learning is through sharing and comparing. The Can Do Kids Worldwide Educator’s Guide is a starting point.

Learning Through Discussion is a key theme at www.candokidsworldwide.com, and the pilot programme is the starting point to empower the next generation of global citizens.