Learning Dispositions: Creating Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environments

Learning dispositions refer to the characteristics that shape how students approach learning. They determine how students respond to challenges, collaborate with peers and adapt to new situations.

By understanding and nurturing different learning dispositions, teachers can create more effective and inclusive classrooms, while students can become more engaged and empowered learners. Recognising these dispositions helps educators tailor their teaching strategies to better support individual needs, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

The Changing Nature of Learning Dispositions

Learning dispositions are not fixed traits - they can grow, strengthen, or weaken depending on the learning environment and experiences. For example, a student who initially struggles with maths may give up easily in a rigid learning environment but develop resilience in a supportive classroom that encourages problem-solving and learning from mistakes. 

Over time, this resilience can strengthen and transfer to other areas, such as tackling complex projects or overcoming personal challenges, demonstrating how dispositions can evolve and apply across different contexts.

The depth and flexibility of dispositions may also evolve. Over time, students expand how they apply their disposition in more sophisticated ways. For example, a student who begins by collaborating on simple group tasks may, over time, refine their teamwork skills by taking on leadership roles, navigating complex group dynamics and adapting their communication style to different team members.

Students may demonstrate different dispositions depending on their environment. A child who is confident when speaking with a teacher may be hesitant in a group discussion with peers. 

These variations in dispositions highlight the role of educators in creating environments that encourage students to adapt, grow and confidently express themselves in different settings.

Key Learning Dispositions

Schools focus on key learning dispositions that equip students with the mindset and skills needed for lifelong success. These dispositions shape how students engage with challenges and adapt to new situations.

• Resilience and Perseverance Resilience and perseverance are essential traits that help students push through challenges. At Wollondilly Anglican College, the key attributes of a resilient learner are recognised as Managing Distractions, Perseverance, Absorption and Noticing.

  

  
  

• Curiosity and Creativity Curiosity drives learning by fostering a sense of wonder and exploration. By encouraging students to ask questions, explore new ideas and apply creative problem-solving strategies, schools help develop lifelong learners who are eager to acquire knowledge. Nambour Christian College nurtures curiosity by encouraging students to inquire, seek knowledge and explore new possibilities.

  

  
  

• Independence and Self-Direction Independent learning is a key aspect of developing responsible, self-motivated students. Schools focus on helping students take initiative in their education, set goals and manage their own learning processes. Brigidine College aims to develop independent reflective learners who are committed to lifelong learning.

  

  
  

• Collaboration and Empathy Learning is not a solitary journey—collaboration and empathy play a critical role in fostering inclusive learning communities. Schools encourage teamwork, valuing different perspectives and developing strong interpersonal skills. Jindabyne High School promotes collaboration by emphasising the importance of valuing perspectives and working together to achieve shared goals.

  

  
  

• Adapting to New Challenges with Flexibility In a rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and be flexible in learning is invaluable. Schools nurture agile learners who are open to new ideas, willing to unlearn and relearn and capable of thinking in different ways. St Clare’s College promotes flexible thinking by teaching students to approach challenges from multiple perspectives and find innovative solutions.

  

  
  

Using the VARK Model to Support Learning Dispositions

Another tool for understanding how students learn is the VARK (Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic) model. By recognising their own learning preferences, students can adopt strategies that enhance their engagement and success. Teachers can also use this framework to tailor instruction, ensuring that all students receive information in ways that align with their strengths.

How Educators Can Nurture Learning Dispositions

Educators play a critical role in fostering positive learning dispositions by:

• Recognising and reinforcing positive dispositions through encouragement and feedback.
  

• Providing opportunities for students to engage in open-ended tasks that promote creativity, collaboration and independent thinking.
  

• Creating safe learning environments where students feel comfortable taking risks and learning from mistakes.
  

By cultivating strong learning dispositions, educators help students develop confidence, adaptability and a lifelong passion for learning. Schools across Australia are embracing these approaches to ensure students are equipped with the skills and mindset needed for success in an ever-changing world.

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Further Resources

• The Learning Disposition Wheel: Developed by the Center for Transformative Teaching & Learning, this tool helps educators identify and nurture various learning dispositions in students. Read more. 

• The VARK Questionnaire helps identify your preferred learning style, allowing you to adopt personalised techniques for better learning outcomes. Take the quiz.

• The Learning Dispositions Worksheet encourages students to reflect on various learning dispositions, promoting a deeper understanding of how they can become effective learners. Download the Worksheet. 

• In Effective Collaboration: Deep Collaboration as an Essential Element of the Learning Process, George Head explores how meaningful collaboration enhances student learning, fosters critical thinking and builds strong interpersonal skills. Read here.