The Guided Design Process model is very interesting. My initial response to this model was positive. Although this model was tested in high school and college settings, I feel that is would be a good fit for middle/junior high school. Some content areas need support from these types of models early on. The barriers may happen in school settings where the instructor may not have the resources to properly implement the style of instruction. Also, the size of the groups may be a problem if some members are not participating. If these problems can be managed correctly, students and instructors will have a positive learning experience where both sides are teaching and learning from each other.
As a current volunteer, I work with second graders at a STEM school. This model wouldn't fit for them but it can be adjusted in a way that the students will learn decision-making skills. For example, the class could be split in half and the students would have a problem presented to them. Each group can come up with a solution and once they complete the solution they then can come together as a class and and compare their answers. This will give the students a competitive feeling and the instructor would not have to ask leading questions. All the instructor will have to do is provide feedback. Once I finally become a teacher, I will use a theory that is similar to the Guided Design Process model.
This model can be enhanced by many web-based tools. Chat rooms and sites like Second Life would be great for collaboration outside of the class or if they are part of a distance ed. program.
Paul, you are a teacher now!!!
ReplyDeleteThese are all models, and are meant for you to adjust and modify. Just wait untill you read/learn about the next few models. You are going to like them even more.
I think it is important to try new teaching models out and to keep it fresh by changing it up frequently. I love to learn too - and this keeps me on top of my game. Do you know what I mean? I feel like the teacher needs to facilitate learning to the point where you are learning alongside the children - no matter their age!
I would agree guided design could be adapted for elementary learners. The "openness" of the presented problems might be somewhat less than for older learners, but showing students the process for deriving multiple solutions, rating them by some criteria, and making an informed decision, seems attainable. The Visual Ranking tool by Intel is one that might help with this process... http://www.intel.com/about/corporateresponsibility/education/k12/tools.htm
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