From the Course:
Assess & Progress: Spotting & Stopping Threats

Hugh Jackman has mentioned a simple line his father often used:
“When in doubt, learn more.”

He credits it with saving him several times being impulsive and making mistakes. 

In schools, this applies everywhere and every day. When a staff member brings you a concern, learning more keeps you from reacting to the surface issue. You ask a few more questions. You try to understand what’s really happening so you can best help the person. 

When you’re assessing student behaviors, learning more is essential. 

Most assessment mistakes come from acting too fast with too little information or missing warning signs because you stopped too early because everything seemed okay. 

Learning more means slowing down just enough to ensure you see the full picture. 

And when you’re dealing with potential threats, learning more is a protective action. It prevents both overreaction and under-reaction. It keeps you focused on the facts rather than fear. It helps you identify what matters, what doesn’t, and what needs to happen next. 

It’s a simple principle, but it works because clarity prevents mistakes and understanding prevents harm. And informed decisions protect people. 

So when in doubt, learn more.