·
Access and read the 12 theories described in
"About
Learning" from Funderstanding.com (follow all links)
·
Access and explore "The Personality Page"
at ChartPlanet.com (follow all links)
·
Take the "Keirsey Temperament Sorter" test provided by
Keirsey.com
·
Draw conclusions about the theories described as
they apply to adult vocational courses
·
Discuss how the articles apply to the class you
teach
·
Discuss how your class could be improved by
these concepts
·
Write and submit a report in memo format to the
class-at-large via e-mail by the due date syllabus
Theories on how adults learn abound. Some support content specific
learning. For example Problem-Based Learning (PBL) suggests that critical
thinking can be taught using real life scenarios or situations. Others
support domain specific learning. For example Bloom's taxonomy theorist
suggest that problem-solving is based on a domain preference, i.e. an
information processing [cognitive domain (thinking)], perceptual [psychomotor
domain (trial and error)], or personality [affective domain (emotion, what
feels right)] approach.
The plethora of theories have given rise to many evaluation tools for identify a learners problem-solving preference and/or method
of information processing. Two of these have been provided for you to
take and discuss. Many more can be found on-line, in books, or through
professional services. Some are available at a fee while others are
free. Please take the two that have been provided as you will be asked to
reference the results in your report.
I have used the Kiersey Temperament Sorter for my students and most have
reported a better understanding of themselves and their approach to
problem-solving and communication strategies. Although I have used
others, the Kiersey has yielded consistent results when repeated at different
life stages while others yield different results based on the stage of life or
current state of tester. Does this mean that some tests are more valid
than others or does it indicate out preferences change over time.
Perhaps it means that preferences situational-based. It is left to you to
draw your own conclusions from these readings and activities.
Access and read the 12 theories described in "About
Learning" from Funderstanding.com and the Myers-Briggs approach
exemplified by the Keirsey Temperament Sorter at "The Personality Page"
at ChartPlanet.com. Be sure to follow all links to ensure addressing the
material comprehensively. Take the Keirsey Temperament Sorter self-evaluation. Then
write a report following the memo format described in the first
assignment. The report will be e-mailed to the class-at-large using the
"Send mail" feature in NiceNet. Reports should include all the
following elements.
Drawing upon your experience as both an educator and a student, draw
conclusions about how the various theories apply to teaching adult learners in
vocational education. Discuss the merits and demerits of these theories
from a pragmatic point of view. For example, how practical is the
implementation in real-time classrooms? Are some theories more effective
than others? Which are best and describe why? Be specific and support
your conclusion with examples from your classroom or personal experience.
Next, which, if any, of these concepts are in practice in
your classrooms in total or in part. Be specific and site
examples. Do not use vague references. Always avoid names and
identifying information to preserve your students' privacy but explain the
details of the example you are using.
Finally, discuss whether or not your class could be improved by implementing
additional concepts from these articles. Site the article and specific
theory. Explain how you would apply the concept and the expected
outcome. Reference your Keirsey Temperament Sorter results to support
your conclusions.
This assignment is worth 10% of your grade.
Reports meeting the following criteria will receive an "A."
·
Take the "Keirsey Temperament Sorter" test provided by
Keirsey.com (2 point)
·
Draw conclusions about the theories described as
they apply to adult vocational courses (2 points)
·
Discuss how the articles apply to the class you
teach (2 points)
·
Discuss how your class could be improved by
these concepts (2 points)
·
Write and submit a report in memo format to the
class-at-large via e-mail by the due date (2 point)
Extra Credit
Read the article on Problem-Based Learning (PBL) learning and reference it in
your report along with the mandatory theories listed above. (2 points)