This week we were given a series of frame works to evaluate and decide which would suit our learners the best. I think that the engagement theory is the most useful framework for learning, as all teachers want to engage students, and this theory is based on meaningful learning and problem solving as stated by Kearsley and Shneiderman. I Believe this frame work is a difficult one to incorporate, however could be very successful if used correctly in the classroom. The basic principles of the framework can be found in the table below.
ELEMENT, DEFINITION, OUTLINE OF ELEMENT
Relate, Occur in a group context, This element involves team work,
which means students have to communicate with each
other, plan and above all,
interact with each other in order
to get a job done.
Create, Are project based, This allows students to choose their
own way to present a piece of assessment,
based on the strengths and weaknesses
of the group.
Donate, Have an outside (authentic) focus, Students make a successful contribution
to the community.
If we look at the topic of ecology in senior biology, it can be seen how this framework could be incorporated into the classroom. Traditionally, students do a field study in a particular area and write up a report based on their findings, however this could be taken one step further. If students were to conduct the field study, collaborate their findings, then figure out some way of 'giving back to the community' using technology. Some ideas that students could come up with could be educating the community to what is in their local area using powerpoint presentaions or ways to conserve the environment they studied by creating a website.
It would not be possible to use this framework at all times, however I think that it would be very beneficial to students, and would allow them to take pride in their work.
Kearsley, G. & Schneidman, B. (1999). Engagment Theory: A Framework in Technology-Based Teaching and Learning. [http://home.sprynet.com/~gkearsley/engage.htm]
Hi Melissa, you have some very valid points there. After browsing through both texts, I was confused as to which framework I think would be more effective to use in the classroom. I really liked the Big6 theory and how detailed it was. I felt like the six steps were similiar to what already occurs in learning experiences without even knowing.However in order for students to learn in the first place, you are right- they need to be engaged and using authentic learning is a great way to do this.
ReplyDeleteI ended up deciding the incorporating both frameworks together would be most effective in my opinion because I doub't I could choose between the two.