Unit IV: CASE-BASED LEARNING METHODS, COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY THEORY AND LEARNING OBJECTS

Similarities or differences between the theories/models? Do they share common foundations or principles?

The three learning models presented in this unit, Case-Based Learning, Cognitive Flexibility and Learning Objects, all focus on providing resources. Both Case-Based Learning and Cognitive Flexibility Theory provide cases as a resource for students to explore, compare and reason. These cases are compiled from previous experiences with the intent of others gaining understanding and the ability to compare to their present situation. Like these two models, Learning Objects can be cross-referenced to compare and gain insight from however is not based on learning as the other are. The main difference of Learning Objects is that it provides a tagged resource that others can reuse and repurpose for current situation without recreating. The first two models are based on learning context where Learning Objects are based on learning content.

Initial reactions to learning theories/models? Barriers to their use? Benefits to overcoming the barriers?

Based on my initial thoughts, these models are more appropriate for college or adult learners. First of all I think it would take a lot of planning, preparation and presentation time for teachers to create any of these models. I think that the age group I teach, K-5, would have a hard time using these models based on the premise that they should learn from others experiences. I believe that college and adult learners have more background knowledge and personal experiences to compare with the cases presented in Case-Based Learning and Cognitive Flexibility Theory. I see Learning Objects as a good resource for professionals such as educators and those in the medical field as well as college and adult learners. I believe the different perspectives presented in the Learning Objects could be a beneficial resource for those wanting to learn more about specific topics.

Would you attempt to use any of these theories/models with the students you are currently teaching or hope to teach in the future? Why or why not? Could elements of the theories/models be modified so that they would work with your current/future students?

The models remind me of teaching my fourth and fifth grade students to use database. With database instruction, students learn how to sort, find and compare information the same as with the Case Based Learning and Cognitive Flexibility Theory. If I could overcome the barrier of the time involved in creating the models and simplify the content to be more age appropriate (and based on experiences of 8-10 year olds), I believe it could be a great resource for students to use higher order thinking skills.

Learning Objects also reminded me of the Smart Notebook Exchange. This is a database where educators post created files with tags for others to view, download, revise and reuse to suit their needs. I like that all of the models presented lend to reworking products to suit current needs yet have been created by individuals with similar purposes. I’m always for not recreating the wheel!

Since we're taking learning theories/models that were not necessarily created with the Web in mind & turning them into Web modules, what Web-based tools/resources could be leveraged to carry out these learning theories/models online? Please spend some time identifying tools and resources for this last point, as this background research should help you complete your projects more efficiently.

Tools that I could see using with these models include:

Edmodo: Edmodo could be used as a discussion board and space to present content. The discussion board would provide students a space to discuss cases and gain insights from each other.

Tangler: Another discussion board application for students to collaborate in real time.