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Dimension 4 |
Using Knowledge Meaningfully
Students learn best when they need knowledge to accomplish a goal they consider important. The Dimensions of Learning framework includes six types of thinking processes that can be used to encourage students to use knowledge meaningfully. A meaningful-use task includes five key elements:
1.
Application Oriented(Integrates a variety of higher-order thinking processes)
2.
Student as Professional(Real-world roles, problems, and issues; a reality-based scenario)
3.
Long Term(Cannot be completed within a single class period)
4.
Involves Student Choice(Particularly concerning approach and end product)
5.
Multiple end Results• Tangible Product
• Oral Presentation/Defense
Decision-Making: Generating and applying criteria to select from among seemingly equal alternatives.
Problem-Solving: Overcoming constraints or limiting conditions that are in the way of pursuing goals.
Invention: Developing unique products or processes that fulfill perceived needs.
Experimental Inquiry: Generating and testing explanations of observed phenomena.
Investigation: Identifying and resolving issues about which there are confusions or contradictions.
Systems Analysis: Analyzing the parts of a system and the manner in which they interact.
For additional information or assistance call the Community Instructional Specialist for your cluster or Antoinette Kellaher, Department of Staff Development, (301-805-2700).
The Dimensions of Learning Teachers' Manual
Observing Dimensions of Learning in Classrooms and Schools (Brown-ASCD), and related materials can be borrowed from the Bonnie Johns Teacher Resource Library (301-386-1605).
Click here for Dimensions of Learning Graphic Organizers Page