Threads of Thinking
Schemas and Young Children's Learning
- Cathy Nutbrown - University of Sheffield, UK
Early Childhood Education
This book makes schema theory explicit in practice. Supported by numerous detailed examples and the discussion of difficult theoretical issues, it illustrates children's learning in areas such as literacy, maths and science.
This new edition includes:
- discussion on the need for professional development
- changes in early years pedagogy
- more discussion of theories of learning in relation to curriculum and teaching practices
- new examples of children's drawings
- new suggestions for using stories to support schemas.
Threads of Thinking is for early years practitioners who wish to support and develop children's learning.
Professor Cathy Nutbrown is Director of Studies in Early Childhood Education at the University of Sheffield.
Praise for the previous edition:
'Cathy Nutbrown is able to discuss difficult theoretical issues with a lightness of touch and to illustrate those issues with clear observations from children. Accessibility is combined with depth. The scope of the book is comprehensive but detailed. She covers most of the early education issues of the day in ways that will encourage professionals to develop a more coherent and meaningful pedagogy than exists at the present time' - Chris Athey
I really like the way that this book is presented which makes it instantly engaging. It is really easy to dip in and out of, and will be a great help to the many students who have struggled to find appropriate texts explaining schema.
This book is a good introduction to schemas for early years workers, rather than parents. I am not sure that it's enhanced by the pedagogical features at the end of each chapter as the book uses questions a lot anyway. I particularly liked the section on 'continuity' and on 'working with parents'. Its strength is in making links with children's literature.
The 4th Edition of this excellent text continues to offer many insights into the lives of young children as learners;underpinned by theoretical models as applied to practice. The case studies bring the children's understandings to life! The format is great for 'making sense' for ourselves about representations children use such as schema, mark making and drawing. The section at the end of each chapter with questions and activities help the reader to reflect and apply ideas to practice and situate these in a relevant way. Overall the theme of respect for children,parents and early childhood professionals is a strong theme that connects to understanding and responding to the diverse ways in which young children learn.
this is an essential text for practitioners working with young children and gives valuable insight into understanding how children think. It places the role of observation as a key ingredient in understanding children and their thinking. I particulalry enjoyed the chapter about working with parents. I also think that the use of Athey's 3 Ps: professionals, parents and pedagogy is a great aide memoire to what we should be doing and reflecting upon in our work with children.
A wonderful extension to the much loved work on Schemas by Professor Cathy Nutbrown. Those who are interested in the facsinating world of young children will never tire of extending their understanding of young children's ability to make sense of the world as told in this thought provoking text.
A welcome update of an already excellent text
I did not find this book to have sufficient theoretical underpinning.
The section on how to implement thinking skills into the classroom gave practical advice. Accessible, relevant information throughout the book.
FdA ECS students have thoroughly appreciated the fresh ideas that Cathy Nutbrown promotes throughout this text. It has proved an excellent resource for their child development and supporting learning modules.
It also provides a clear link from the key theorists that have shaped our current philosphies to the current models of learning employed to best promote the development and learning within the early years.
Also useful when used with level 3 students to develop their reading and researching skills.
