Less is More

Notes from "Less is More: How A Focus On Learning Can Make This Happen in Schools." Martin Skelton ECIS Administrators' Courageous Leadership Conference Istanbul April 2011

• The speaker likened the acquisition of knowledge to the choice of buying a book, i.e. if you know what book you're looking for it's best to go to a big book store but if you don't, it's better to go to a small one because too much choice can be overwhelming. English teachers, please note when giving composition choices!





• The value of trying established methods and not adopting everything that's new just because it is. The Dalai Lama has said that he is disappointed in the spread of Buddhism in the West as he sees it as a trend, people hopping from one faith to another. It would be better to examine your own faith and make headway in that direction.





• "Less is more" was the philosophy of the 20th century architect, Mies Van Der Rohe who designed according to the holistic nature of things.





• "The Hedgehog" versus the "One-Trick Pony" concept. See http://www.jimcollins.com/
  
  

The benefit of choosing a simple concept as a frame of reference. The clearer the focus, the higher rate of success.

What defines a good school?
Based on parent satisfaction? Limiting
Based on management satisfaction? Equally limiting
"Learning should be the driver." The school should arrive at a shared definition of learning.

• When we look at learning, "Are they busy?" versus "Are they busy learning?"
  

If you're learning you should be struggling. The speaker gave the example of a Spanish teacher who had excellent skills but the level of learning in her classes was disappointing. She found out that the less she taught the more her students learned. With more focus came more learning.

When looking at your classroom, keep the following points in mind:

1.Knowledge which is based on memory
2. Skills which develop with resilience
3. Understanding that comes with experience and reflection.
4. When observing teachers the importance of understanding whether the students are learning.

See Diagram for Learning:

• Set realistic goals...80% maintenance 20% development





• Don't set too many targets





• School improvement planning: Focus on issues that you can solve





• Being brave in carrying out the solution