Carr (in Bruce, 2004) has identified five learning dispositions that should be developed in

preschool children. Firstly, identify the learning dispositions and describe the dispositions.
Secondly, Discuss what you think each of these dispositions or attitudes refer to and Why
do you think that each one is important?

1 answer

The five learning dispositions identified by Carr are curiosity, openness, resilience, reflection, and collaboration.

1. Curiosity: This refers to an intrinsic motivation to explore, investigate, and learn about the world around us. It involves asking questions, seeking answers, and being engaged in learning. Curiosity is important as it drives children to seek knowledge and understanding, leading to deeper learning and problem-solving skills.

2. Openness: This refers to being open-minded, receptive to new ideas, and willing to consider different perspectives. It involves being flexible, adaptable, and willing to learn from others. Openness is important as it allows children to expand their thinking, challenge their beliefs, and engage in constructive dialogue with others.

3. Resilience: This refers to the ability to persevere, overcome challenges, and bounce back from setbacks. It involves having a positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and the ability to cope with adversity. Resilience is important as it helps children develop a growth mindset, build confidence, and develop coping strategies for future challenges.

4. Reflection: This refers to the ability to think critically, evaluate one's own learning, and make connections between different ideas. It involves self-awareness, self-monitoring, and self-regulation. Reflection is important as it helps children deepen their understanding, make meaning of their experiences, and develop metacognitive skills for lifelong learning.

5. Collaboration: This refers to working cooperatively with others, sharing ideas, and valuing diverse perspectives. It involves communication, teamwork, and empathy. Collaboration is important as it helps children develop social skills, build relationships, and learn from others' experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Overall, developing these learning dispositions in preschool children is important as they lay the foundation for lifelong learning, critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional skills. By nurturing curiosity, openness, resilience, reflection, and collaboration, children can become more engaged, motivated, and empowered learners who are prepared to navigate an ever-changing world.