Shadows of Light and History in Explorative Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Shadows are everyday phenomena that intrigued people in the past and remain accessible today. Shadows and history provided the context for Jab activities among two teachers who participated with me as learners under the research pedagogy of critical exploration. Eleanor Duckworth developed critical exploration from the clinical interviewing of Jean Piaget and Biirbe/ lnhe/der and classroom practices of the 1960s Elementary Science Study. During critical explorations, learners explore a subject matter without being told what to do or find; the teacher supports these investigations without imposing an expected path. During this study, two teachers explored while looking for each other in a mirror and observing shadows cast by the sun and candles. They responded to historical observations by lbn alHaytham, Leonardo da Vinci and Jean Piaget. Together the teachers extended their understandings of light, history and the gy nastic art of following another learner's outlook. In the process, these teachers deepened their capacities for supporting curiosity among the children and students whose learning comes under their care. This example of teaching and learning through critical exploration can empower other teachers to launch students on personal journeys of discovery.