This action-oriented book study invites educators to explore Cultures of Thinking in Action by Ron Ritchhart and apply its principles directly to their teaching. Each week, participants will read one chapter, implement a strategy or “Possible Action” in their own classrooms, and reflect on the results. Through this read–implement–reflect cycle, teachers will uncover how classroom culture influences learning and how small shifts in practice can make students’ thinking more visible, valued, and supported. Participants will have opportunities to choose between paired chapters with complementary mindsets, allowing for individualized exploration and deeper engagement.

This course is appropriate for classroom teachers, grades K-12. Teacher librarians, instructional coaches, and administrators are invited to join us; they will be asked to think outside the box for projects to suggest meaningful adaptations that will complement their role’s work.

Required Text:

• Cultures of Thinking in Action: 10 Mindsets to Transform Our Teaching and Students' Learning by Ron Ritchhart

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Analyze the key forces that shape a culture of thinking and explain how they manifest in classroom practice.
• Implement and evaluate strategies from Cultures of Thinking in Action that promote deeper student engagement and intellectual risk-taking.
• Reflect on and document the impact of intentional classroom moves on students’ thinking, participation, and ownership of learning.
• Adapt and design learning experiences that align with the principles of a culture of thinking within their own content area or grade level.
• Collaborate with peers to exchange ideas, feedback, and evidence of growth related to building a sustained culture of thinking.