Lesson One:Whole Task Learning

Return To: ETAP 623 Spring 2013 - Wilde | Matt Talbot:Portfolio Page | Matthew Talbot

Return To: Whole Task Learning Utilizing iPad Technology

Go On To: Lesson Two: iPad Technology in Education | Lesson Three: Using the iPad | Lesson Four: Bringing It All Together

Lesson Objectives

When asked to discuss benefits of whole task learning, learners will state at least two pedagogical benefits by writing a short response in a discussion forum.

Getting Started

In order to design a lesson based on whole task practice, we must first take a look at what whole task learning is all about. Read this article Whole-Task Models in Educationwhich lays out the history, components, and models of this approach. Pay close attention to the models discussed by Merrienboer and Kester.

Notice that each model shows signs of selecting tasks that directly relate to real life and therefore hold meaning and purpose to the learner. This type of authentic learning is a major component to consider in the whole task approach. Watch this video, part of a series created by Jan Herrington, to learn more about authentic learning.

Theory in Action

Now lets take a look at some whole task approaches in practice.

Here we have a group of students who are touching on many topics and learning through whole task projects. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFySmS9_y_0

Now take a look at the way 4th graders at Decker Elementary in Texas are learning concepts such as perimeter and area. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Azky5wCSEg

Discussion

Use the discussion tab to address the following two topics:

1) In your opinion, do teachers receive enough training on the use of the iPad and how to incorporate it into instruction?

2) Discuss the pedagogical benefits of taking a whole task approach to instructional design.

3) According to the article by Merrienboer and Kester, should part-task models be completely abandoned? Why or why not?

Create your own initial post with your thoughts on each topic and then comment on at least two of your classmates' posts.

Lesson Project

Throughout this unit you will design your own lesson that takes a whole task instructional approach and utilizes the iPad as a tool. Start by completing the following two tasks:

1) Select a topic to teach and an authentic task that can be used to teach it. 2) Revisit the models presented by Merrienboer and Kester. Choose one of these models or elements from each to help construct your lesson.

Your final project will be evaluated based on the following categories:

1) Does the lesson accomplish the objectives?

2) Is the whole task learning approach present?

3) Is the iPad utilized as an effective instructional tool?

4) Is the app appropriate for learning?

Extended Resources

http://learninginhand.com/pbl/

References

Van Merriënboer, J. J., & Kester, L. (2007). Whole-task models in education. Handbook of research on educational communications and technology, 441-456.

http://itforum.coe.uga.edu/paper118/Chapter35Handbook.pdf

Herrington, J. (2011). 9 Elements of Authentic Learning [video]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7euTz6iQ2Bc

edutopia (2010). An Introduction to Project Learning [video]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFySmS9_y_0

powerontexas (2011). Junior Architect Lesson [video]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Azky5wCSEg