Learning+Pathways

I would like to discuss the Learning Pathways that I use in the design of lessons. These pathways are the direct result of years of teaching. Each has a research based defense, but more importantly each has the validity of evidence within my experiences. Besides, as PATHWAYS these are really nothing more that crude hand-drawn maps representative of the ways I took in my career to design learning experiences for STAFF, STUDENTS, and MYSELF.

Here are the terms superimposed on what I consider to be a fair illustration of the learning process. You'll note that it is a geodome. You'll also note that you can put your pencil tip on any spot and trace a path to any other spot.

If you will pretend that the geosphere represents the brain, you can see that there are innumerable pathways to connect any two points. There are lesson designs that will allow the connections to be made in any haphazard manner just as there are lesson designs that will connect the points with a straightforward purpose. Here are two pathways that could theoretically be taken to teach the BIG IDEA called "From AADDEC to BEDFCE"



Which is the "best" path to take? Ah ha! THAT's a great question for a "Contrast and Compare" learning extension adventure sometime. But for now, let's agree to this: we want to design a lesson that is as direct {i.e. effective and efficient (and sticky)} as possible. What would it look like? That's obne of the goals of this wiki - to try and define what meaningful learning experiences look like. In the course of discovering this, we will be looking at Game Design Theory, Business Practices, Advertising Strategies, Athletic Coaching, and, oh yeah, effective teaching practices.

The rules are simple - everything is fair game. Nothing is thrown out or disgarded on face value. Discussion and consensus is essential. So is creativity, courage, and a willingness to take chances. If you don't throw things into the mix, who knows what great "AH HA" we might miss!