In the explorations of talk above, three characteristics emerge. These three characteristics lead us to a definition of purposeful talk. Talk is purposeful when it...
- Honors constructive intent. Purposeful talk engages participants in a deliberate process of building on a range of thinking to construct unique ideas, strategize, and innovate. Participants recognize their ability to draw from what Peter Senge describes as “a ‘larger pool of meaning’, accessible only to a group” (1990, 248), and believe deeply in the value of doing so.
- Harnesses the power of varied perspectives. Purposeful talk deliberately harnesses a range of perspectives to broaden and deepen the thinking and constructive potential. Participants value the differing perspectives, actively seek them out, and work to fully understand each voice.
- Engages participants over expanded time and space. Purposeful talk honors the time participants need to deepen and evolve understanding. Participants recognize that the process of constructing doesn’t necessarily happen in simple, quick conversations. They’re willing to dwell in shades of gray as they wrestle with varied perspectives, contemplate possibilities, and gather new thinking. They recognize that compelling ideas may linger and evolve over time, and are willing to cycle back to rethink and revise or expand previous understandings.
…
Learn more and order Building Bigger Ideas at Heinemann.com
Maria Nichols is a literacy consultant and Director of School Innovation for the San Diego Unified School District. A former elementary classroom teacher, Nichols received the Distinguished Elementary Educator Award from the San Diego chapter of Phi Delta Kappa, 2002.
Maria is the author of Comprehension Through Conversation and Building Bigger Ideas.
