Job Discussion Forums

[bj80]

I have been reading a lot by Sigfield Engelmann's Direct Instruction.

At least with Project Follow-Through, it seems the most effective, time-efficient, and cost-effective way to teach basic topics, including English.

However, once that is done, I think Constructivist lessons are a great supplement to add relevance, real-world situations, social situations, etc.

What are your thoughts?

[suphanburi]

My thought is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach: A vs B, B vs C or A vs C.

Most approaches have their strengths and weaknesses at different levels of learning so it is more a case of doing your needs assessment for your learners and choosing the approaches that best suit their needs at the time and adapting your approach as their learning and needs change.

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[bj80]

Thanks.

I'm still a newbie and learning about needs assessment. Any recommended reading, etc. I could do to assist my trial-and-error?

[JoThomas]

I mostly use constructivism, although with beginning/intermediate language learners I use a mix of direct instruction and constructivism. Within the IB framework where I work - learning is focused on using inquiry based learning. Students are asking and answering questions and developing their critical thinking skills. Students work collaboratively with others using their strengths to understand concepts. The work is often student-centered and students are given time to reflect on their learning.