Five perspectives on teaching
The first thing to be said about teaching methods is that
there is no law or rule that says teaching methods are driven by theories of
learning. Especially in post-secondary education, most instructors would be
surprised if their teaching was labelled as behaviorist or constructivist.
The five qualitatively different perspectives on teaching. presenting
each perspective as a legitimate view of teaching:
- · Transmission: effective delivery of content (an objectivist approach)
- · Apprenticeship: modelling ways of being (learning by doing under supervision)
- · Developmental: cultivating ways of thinking (constructivist/cognitivist)
- · Nurturing: facilitating self-efficacy (a fundamental tenet of connectivism MOOCs)
- · Social reform: seeking a better society.
Interactive lectures, seminars, and tutorials: learning by talking
Learning in a particular, ways of approaches are more
commonly found when there is a focus on:
- Information transmission.
- Tests that rely mainly on memory.
- A lack of interaction and discussion.
- On the other hand, deeper approaches to learning are found when there is a focus on:
- Analytical or critical thinking or problem-solving.
- In-class discussion.
- Assessment based on analysis, synthesis, comparison and evaluation.
Experiential learning
Experiential Learning is the process of learning by doing.
By engaging students in hands-on experiences and reflection, they are better
able to connect theories and knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world
situations.
Experiential learning opportunities exist in a variety of
course- and non-course-based forms and may include community service,
service-learning, undergraduate research, study abroad/away, and culminating
experiences such as internships, student teaching, and capstone projects, to
name a few.
- Better
understanding of course material
- A broader
view of the world and an appreciation of community
- Insight into
their own skills, interests, passions, and values
- Opportunities
to collaborate with diverse organizations and people
- Positive
professional practices and skill sets
- The
gratification of assisting in meeting community needs
- Self-confidence
and leadership skills