Core Concept
Guide and assist students as they take on more responsibility for their learning. Envision the class as a 'social-system' that requires direction not instruction.
Implementation Process
Present Problem
Introduce concept with minimal explanation. Set clear expectations for final result.
Group Discussion
Students work in small groups or pairs to explore solutions collaboratively.
Circulate & Guide
Move between groups, listening, answering questions, and redirecting when needed.
Present Solutions
Groups submit final answers in written or oral formats.
Problem Design Criteria
- Be well-conceived and thoughtfully structured
- Meet course/class objectives clearly
- Be appropriate for the time allotted
- Require collaboration and discussion
Learning Objectives Strategy
Explicit Framework Approach
Provide students with explicit learning objectives for sessions, readings, and assignments. This creates a framework for organizing knowledge and keeps instruction focused.
Implementation: List objectives on the board and check off concepts as they're covered.
Key Benefits
Transfers learning ownership to students
Builds teamwork and communication skills
Develops problem-solving abilities
Students learn to evaluate their understanding
Self-Assessment Development
Building Metacognitive Skills
Students need to learn to self-assess their understanding. Start with instructor-guided assessment, then gradually allow independent work as the semester progresses.
Remember: Simply listing objectives without well-conceived design won't impact student learning.