Teaching Preschool Through the Lens of Complexity Theory

• In Event: Methods and Models in Complexity Theories in Education

Abstract

Teaching through the lens of complexity theory provides a 21st century approach to teaching and learning, and will foster equity and deeper learning. Teaching and learning are processes that are emergent and self-organizing. Teaching and learning comprise a complex system of interactions which result in the emergence of individual knowledge and group knowledge. Self-organization demonstrates how simple rules generate complex results. A complexity approach is well suited for preschool-aged children because they have few preconceived notions about classroom processes. Using principles of complexity to organize cognitive activities mirrors young children’s implicit thinking. Five rules generated complex learning, formed the foundation of our complexity-based preschool classroom. Emergence and self-organization can be used to organize cognitive activities which foster equity and diversity.

Authors

• Fay K. Maas, University of Minnesota-Duluth

• Jeffrey Maas