Why is Depth and Complexity Essential to Student Learning?
Adding Depth and Complexity to lessons is a natural differentiation tool designed to raise thinking levels in all students. Using the icons prompts students go beyond surface level understanding of a concept and enhance their ability to think critically. These critical thinking tools help students dig deeper into a concept (depth) and understand that concept with greater complexity.
"Developed by Bette Gould and Sandra Kaplan, the Depth and Complexity framework is composed of six fundamental elements that work together to allow any teacher or any content area or grade level to raise student achievement and differentiate instruction painlessly" (Van Gemert, n.d.).
While there is a great amount of information on the internet about Depth and Complexity, the real instruction is not behind the "cuteness" of an icon or using "details" at the surface level. Authentic use of Depth and Complexity takes the learner to a higher level of critical thinking.
To learn more, visit the following sites and check back as more resources are added.