Plan-Do-Review is a popular early childhood education strategy that encourages active learning, critical thinking and reflection. This method consists of three major stages: planning, participating in activities and reflecting on the experience. Educators create a structured framework that empowers children and improves their learning experiences by implementing the Plan-Do-Review process.
Children are encouraged to consider their goals, make decisions and set objectives for their activities during the planning phase. They have conversations with their teachers or peers, brainstorm ideas and plan their learning journey. This stage encourages critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making abilities. It empowers children to take ownership of their education and actively participate in decision-making.
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Children engage in hands-on activities and experiences related to their plans during the ‘Do’ phase. They investigate, experiment and put their theories into action. This stage allows children to practise their creativity, motor skills and social interactions. Children deepen their understanding of concepts, make connections and gain new knowledge and skills by actively participating in planned activities.
Following the ‘Do’ phase, the ‘Review’ stage promotes introspection and self-evaluation. Children are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, discuss what they have learnt and assess their progress towards their initial objectives. This stage fosters metacognitive skills by teaching children to analyse their own thought processes and evaluate their learning outcomes. Reflection encourages children to connect their experiences and prior knowledge, fostering deeper understanding and the ability to apply knowledge to new situations.
Students greatly benefit from the Plan-Do-Review approach in a variety of ways. For starters, it encourages active participation and engagement in the learning process. Children become active learners, making decisions and accepting responsibility for their actions. This level of participation boosts their motivation and enthusiasm for learning.
Second, the Plan-Do-Review cycle promotes critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. It encourages children to think creatively, make decisions and find solutions to problems they encounter while participating in activities. This method develops their ability to analyse, evaluate and reflect on their own thought processes.
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Furthermore, the Plan-Do-Review cycle promotes the growth of communication and social skills. Children participate in discussions, collaborate with peers and express their ideas and thoughts during the planning and review stages. This encourages effective communication, cooperation and teamwork.
Besides, as children reflect on their learning experiences, identify areas for improvement and set new goals, the Plan-Do-Review approach fosters metacognitive skills. This metacognitive awareness improves their ability to monitor and regulate their own learning, promoting skills for lifelong learning.
As a result of involving children in the conception, execution and evaluation of their learning experiences, the Plan-Do-Review approach in early childhood education empowers children. This method encourages active participation, critical thinking, communication and metacognitive skills. Educators who incorporate the Plan-Do-Review process into their teaching practices provide a structured framework that benefits students by instilling a love of learning, independence and self-directed learning skills that are critical for their future academic success and personal growth.
