What are your initial reactions to this theory/model? What are barriers to its use? What benefits might be expected for those who overcome the barriers?
Initially, my reactions to this model mirrored the previous discussed theory. The focus on promoting thinking skills using real-life problems are a great idea in education. The anchored instruction model, problems are further extended for students to explore new ideas and face new challenges. I also enjoy the discussion of the pros and cons. Students can learn from each other. The most obvious and troublesome barrier in this model is time for understanding and completion. Since this model suggests that students find the relevant information that is embedded in the story, this process may take longer than expected and/or will make it difficult to keep up with the curriculum. Those that overcome these barriers will develop independent thinking skills as well as collaborative skills.
Would you attempt to use this theory/model with the students you are currently teaching or hope to teach in the future? Why or why not? Could elements of the theory/model be modified so that it would work with your current/future students?
This model is well-designed and promotes many skills that K-12 students need. I would simplify the model by not adding extensions or extra questions to the initial problem. I see myself using this theory because students can practice solving real-world problems and formulating ideas from the problem.
Since we're taking learning theories/models that were not necessarily created with the Web in mind and turning them into Web modules, what Web-based tools or resources could be leveraged to carry out this learning theory/model online?
YouTube and other video sharing tools can help students access this information in a class friendly space. In most cases, educational websites have simulations but there aren't any available discussion sections for the students. Sites such as, YouTube and Vimeo allow users to comment on a video and subscribe to users channels. Taking advantage of tools like these are necessary in 21st century learning.
Paul-I agree that since the story (problem) is embedded it might take too long with this model. We only have a certain amount of time to teach a whole lot of content in a semester. There just seems to be a better way to teach the material.
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ReplyDeleteInstead of applying it to the entire curriculum, perhaps anchored instruction is more suited for lessons that are particularly challenging to teach. As instructors, I think we are always trying to understand why students interpret some material better than others. Is it how the material is presented? Is it lack of motivation? I think video scenarios that encourage students to problem solve and collaborate as used in anchored instruction helps with those issues.
ReplyDeleteYouTube is a great video resource but it is also convoluted with content that is not education-friendly, more for entertainment value. I know I always get lost in there ;) Comments posted are not always relevant either which is distracting. I think an option would be to embed the video into your own website and let students comment in a more private, protected space.
I agree with Ginny that, while YouTube offers a plethora of video clips, there is a lot of embedded advertising and content that isn't always kid-friendly. By utilizing video clips specifically aligned or created for the project, it will provide a more focused and rich experience for students.
ReplyDelete(Julie Jones)
I agree with your idea of keeping this model simple. I feel with this model, and others, it is imperative to stick with the steps that are outlined to not overlap another model. In addition, I feel this helps for students to be clear on what content is required knowledge compared to what is supplemental. Good review.
ReplyDeleteHeather Haymer