Four Pillars of Learning Activities
There are four major principles that govern the design of effective learning activities.
1. Ensure validity and value
- Addressing target competencies and core abilities
- Using competencies and learning objectives as cues for the design of learning activities and as checks for learner targets
2. Support the thinking process
- Choosing learner-centered learning activities
- Chunking instruction
- Providing frequent elaborative rehearsal
- Focusing on the “use” level rather than the remember” level
- Alternating informing with practice
- Building in metacognitive supports
3. Vary strategies
- Choosing strategies appropriate to content type
- Progressing through all stages of the learning cycle: motivation, comprehension, practice, and application.
4. Embed core abilities
- Choosing learning activities that require learners to use core abilities
- Selecting learning materials and resources that represent core abilities
Consider the criteria for well-developed learning plans. Download the free WIDS Learning Plan Checklist.
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