This workshop will identify critical features of classrooms and develop a framework for thinking about and researching classrooms which includes aspects/dimensions of teaching and learning.

In this presentation, and subsequent workshop, I explore classrooms that encourage 'understanding' developing a framework for thinking about and researching such classrooms. Each of us has different ways of thinking about learning with understanding. Leaning on and modifying the work of Hiebert et al (1997), the framework sets out five dimensions and core features that relate to these dimensions. In the workshop we will discuss these dimensions, what they mean for individual classrooms, and identify methodologies, and data collection strategies that suit the particular dimension. Thus, I am trying to get away from the typical methodological divides, such as qualitative vs quantitative methods; facts vs values; science vs politics/policy; subjectivity vs objectivity, to name a few - in order to explore the core features of classrooms.