Unlocking Cognitive potential in and out of classroom. The use of the lesson planning of Reuven Feuerstein as answer to special needs


Abstract:

The metacognitive method, developed by Prof. Reuven Feuerstein, plays an important role in the acquisition of cognitive skills. It is unique among leading international interventions for teaching thinking and is able to meet the needs of children with learning difficulties. (Falik, L. 2019). His work revolutionised the way educators and teachers approach teaching and student learning, particularly for those with learning difficulties, notably with his Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) and 'planned lessons'. Feuerstein guarded against any quantification of so-called 'potential' and instead sought to identify mediation processes that supported the unique strengths and needs of the learner. Central to his method is the concept of dynamic assessment, which involves active engagement with students to identify their cognitive strengths and areas for improvement. (Feuerstein, R., & al.2010). Lesson plans are carefully designed to promote cognitive development and facilitate the acquisition of learning strategies. They are part of the Instrumental Enrichment Programme (I.E..), also developed by the same author, which consists of a series of tasks aimed at strengthening specific cognitive functions such as analytical thinking, problem solving and learning to learn. In parallel, formative assessment (Trinchero, 2022) is characterised by its role in the educational process, which is not limited to measuring learning outcomes, but actively contributes to the continuous improvement of the student. In particular, it focuses on identifying strengths and areas for improvement during each student's learning journey, allowing students to reflect on their learning strategies and teachers to adapt the most effective teaching methods.