Book Review

Visible Learning: The Sequel is an exceptional follow-up to John Hattie’s groundbreaking work in education. Building upon the foundation laid in his previous book, Visible Learning, Hattie continues to delve into the complexities of teaching and learning, unraveling the secrets behind what truly works in education. There have been numerous Visible Learning books in the past 14 years, many of them included in the picture here.

In this highly anticipated sequel, Hattie presents an extensive synthesis of over a decade’s worth of research, combining the findings from various studies and meta-analyses to provide educators with a comprehensive understanding of effective classroom practices. His approach and rigorous analysis ensure that this book is firmly rooted in evidence-based research, making it a valuable resource for teachers, school leaders, and educational policymakers.

The book focuses on The Visible Learning model’s five premises: the why, the how, the what, the doing, and the evaluating. When these are at the center of how different learning components are developed, students are able to learn at a higher rate which positively impacts a student’s experience. Figure 3.1 from the book summarizes what this model looks like and how it frames the thinking.

The book is divided into several chapters, each exploring a different aspect of teaching and learning. Hattie delves into topics such as student feedback, homeschool relationships, teacher-student relationships, the role of the teacher, the role of the curriculum, intentional focus on learning strategies, instructional approaches, and the influence of technology on learning. Drawing on a wide range of studies, he discusses the impact of various factors on student achievement, providing a comprehensive framework that helps educators prioritize their efforts effectively.

One of the key takeaways from Visible Learning: The Sequel is Hattie’s emphasis on the importance of visible learning itself—the idea that learning should be transparent, actively involving both students and teachers in the learning process. Hattie argues that when students understand the learning goals, receive regular feedback, and are actively engaged in their own progress, they are more likely to achieve higher levels of academic success.

The Sequel lies in its emphasis on feedback and the significant impact it has on student achievement. Hattie highlights the importance of timely and specific feedback, emphasizing that feedback should be more than just praise

Hattie encourages educators to be flexible and adapt their instructional approaches to meet the diverse needs of their students.

Towards the end of the book, Hattie discusses that it is unlikely that another or criticism—it should guide students towards understanding their strengths and areas for improvement. He provides practical strategies for teachers to provide effective feedback that enhances learning and encourages growth. book will be published on this topic in hard copy format due to the changes in online publishing, etc. He then suggests 11 leaps in thinking that he recommends schools to and teachers to hone in on as they move forward in supporting student achievement.

Hattie delves into the effectiveness of various teaching strategies, including direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, and more. By examining the research behind each approach, he provides educators with a nuanced understanding of when and how to best utilize these methods in the classroom.

Another noteworthy aspect of the book is its exploration of instructional approaches. Hattie delves into the effectiveness of various teaching strategies, including direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, and more. By examining the research behind each approach, he provides educators with a nuanced understanding of when and how to best utilize these methods in the classroom.

1. Embrace technology for impactful student learning.

2. Understand standards, progressions, and strategies for effective lesson planning.

3. Utilize social media as a supportive partner in learning.

4. Prepare students to create their future, not just create for the purpose of the now.

5. Establish powerful systems.

6. Involve teachers in problem-solving and solution creation.

7. Prioritize the impact of teaching over debating specific strategies.

8. Ask the right questions.

9. Reflect on teaching approaches and necessary changes.

10. Base decisions on research and data.

11. Develop equitable systems for all students.

In conclusion, John Hattie’s Visible Learning: The Sequel is a thoughtprovoking book that will continue to shape the future of education. Hattie’s comprehensive synthesis of research findings provides educators with a roadmap to navigate the complexities of teaching and learning, empowering them to make informed decisions that positively impact student outcomes. Visible Learning: The Sequel is a work that will continue to inspire educators and spark meaningful conversations about effective teaching practices for years to come.

Amy MacCrindle, Ed.D. began her career teaching Middle School Language Arts and Social Studies, also serving as a Literacy Coach. She transitioned into administration, growing her experience as an Assistant Principal (MS), Principal (ES), Director of Literacy (PK-12), Director of Elementary Curriculum, and is now the Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Innovation in Huntley District 158. Amy’s passion and expertise are in the fields of change management, curriculum and instruction, innovation, literacy, and school culture. She teaches as an adjunct professor in the fields of leadership, literacy, and EL learners. Follow Amy on X!

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