Five Minds For The Future defines, " the synthesizing mind" as the ability to integrate ideas from different disciplines or spheres into a coherent whole and to communicate that integration to others. I believe that this mind of the future will be the hardest to master and operate from, due to the fact that sometimes we are very myopic in how we approach new learning and analyzes situations and circumstancee. The whole process of synthesis is the and connecting of ideas, however so many times this integration does not occur and if it does occur it is at a superficial level. Gardner states, "we must practice and exercise the art of synthesis."
The eight formats (narratives,taxonomies, complex concepts, rules and aphorisms,powerful metaphors, images and themes) of synthesis outlined provide us with the opportunity to view the same idea or concept from a variety of angles, thereby strengthening our ability to synthesis familiar ideas immediately. We benefit from the exposure to different solutions, different methods of arriving at solutions and different rubrics for evaluation of those solutions.
As I read this chapter there were several wonderings I comtemplate:
How would I provide scaffolding and support to the teachers and students that I serve to develop their ability to engage the "exercise of synthesis"?
How could I use the eight formats of synthesis with adult learners which allow them to step back and identify their specific goals?
Much food for thought!
I like your questions, and I await your answers. Your diagnosis of myopia rings true to me. I am grateful for the people who have come into my life with different perspectives and have broadened my horizons on all of the possible lenses of looking at important issues and large concepts. I do believe, at least in my case, it takes training and a determined effort to practice. Garnder has done a lot to give that kind of direction.
ReplyDeleteAs leaders, we often remind our staff that their main job is to teach students to think. After reading, I really believe that this is what we mean -- we want them to synthesize the information that they gain and store. This is tough for teachers, because it is so hard for us as teachers to let go and let learn. Great post!
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