Instructional Frameworks

Table of Contents Frameworks Scaffolding Protection Direct Instruction Inquiry Scaffolding Protection

Learning: The Old Construction Analogy A “complicated” problem (Gawande, 2009)—challenging, but replicable

Learning: A New Organic Analogy A complex problem—not easy to repeat in a way that gets the same results.

Instructional Methods: The Water

Direct Instruction: Water Rooted in behaviorism Teacher centered Structured Traditional Focused on basic facts and information Less higher-order thinking opportunities provided Product vs. Process of learning emphasized

Inquiry Learning: Water Rooted in constructivism Student centered Active engagement Personalized Potentially challenging social demands (management) Time consuming Process vs. Product of learning emphasized

Scaffolding: Sunshine

Gradual Release of Responsibility: Sunshine Fisher & Frey, 2008, p. 4

Protection: Nurturing Growth Physiologic Hunger, clothing, and shelter Safety Security Belongingness Part of the group Esteem Respect Competence

Summary Learning is personal. Students’ learning, not a teacher’s teaching, is the measure of success. Teachers are responsible for facilitating learning. Both teacher- and student-centered approaches have a place in instruction, although a blend of both is usually most effective. Classrooms must feel “safe” for learning to take place.

References Fisher, D., & Frey, N. (2008). Better learning through structured teaching: A framework for the gradual release of responsibility. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. Gawande, A. (2009). The checklist manifesto: how to get things right. New York: Metropolitan Books