Learning Theories for Post Compulsory Education

Order Description
Assignment 2
Value: 50%
Due date: 06-Jun-2016
Return date: 28-Jun-2016
Length: 2,000
Submission method options
EASTS (online)
Task
Choose EITHER Option (a) or Option (b).

Option (a) – Problem-based learning (PBL)

Outline what a PBL approach is
Discuss why this learning approach could be appropriate for your students*
In what ways could a PBL approach support student learning in your context?
Identify and discuss one learning theory, as discussed in your text and in the first two modules, that you could use to inform the development of a PBL approach? (You can use the learning theory that you discussed in assignment 1, if you think that it is relevant. Do not include behaviourism).
In what ways might a PBL approach to supporting the learning of your students, better meet their needs than the approach that you presently use? (If you already use a PBL approach, and this assignment focuses on further developing that approach, then in responding to the question above you need to discuss how the changes that you have (or will) make, better meet student needs.)
OR

Option (b) – Work-based learning (WBL)

Outline what a WBL approach is
Discuss why this learning approach could be appropriate for your students*
In what ways could a WBL approach support student learning in your context?
Identify and discuss one learning theory, as discussed in your text and in the first two modules, that you could use to inform the development of a WBL approach? (You can use the learning theory that you discussed in assignment 1, if you think that it is relevant. Do not include behaviourism).
In what ways might a WBL approach to supporting the learning of your students, better meet their needs than the approach that you presently use? (If you already use a WBL approach, and this assignment focuses on further developing that approach, then in responding to the question above you need to discuss how the changes that you have (or will) make, better meet student needs.)
In responding to this assignment task, avoid just describing what you already do (where’s the learning in that?). Instead, try to push yourself to improve your practice and use this assignment as a way to do that. If you already use a version of the approach that you have chosen to discuss, it may be necessary to describe what you already do as context for the new approach.

* If you do not presently work as a teacher or trainer, then for the purposes of this assignment imagine the teaching and learning context that you would like to be teaching in.

Rationale
The assignment asks you to consider an approach to teaching and learning that you do not presently use or wish to further develop, and to discuss the benefits of this approach in your context and for your students. Stepping outside of your current practice to consider alternative ways to meet student needs may provide you with additional strategies to meet student needs into the future.

Learning Outcomes:

This assignment addresses the following learning outcomes:
– appreciate the differences between varied approaches to learning and workplace practice
– understand the importance of the context in shaping our learning
– recognise the situated and social nature of learning and the conditions which maximise and impede learning
– analyse theoretical concepts of learning in the light of their own educational practice
– enhance their educational practice by adapting and applying theoretical processes to their own educational practice
Marking criteria
Marking criteria High Distinction Distinction Credit Pass Fail
Understand relevant learning theories and approaches to supporting learning Analyses a PBL or WBL approach showing a deep, knowledgeable and insightful understanding of the chosen approach as well as of the learning theory discussed Analyses a PBL or WBL approach showing a comprehensive understanding of the chosen approach as well as of the learning theory discussed Analyses a PBL or WBL approach showing a well developed understanding of the chosen approach as well as of the learning theory discussed Clearly discusses a PBL or WBL approach using an accurate understanding of the approach discussed. Understanding of the learning theory discussed is accurate and response shows why the learning theory is relevant to the PBL or WBL approach chosen
Understanding of the PBL or WBL approach discussed is not accurate. Understanding of the learning theory discussed is not accurate.

Understand the importance of the context in shaping our learning, and the conditions which maximise and impede learning Response demonstrates a deep, knowledgeable and insightful understanding of the ways learning is shaped by the context in which it occurs, both in relation to own teaching and learning context and more broadly. Factors that support or provide barriers to student learning in own and other contexts are well integrated into response Response demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the ways learning is shaped by the context in which it occurs, both in relation to own teaching and learning context and more broadly. Factors that support or provide barriers to student learning are discussed Analysis of PBL or WBL approach in relation to application in own teaching and learning context is well developed and includes discussion of factors that could best support student learning in that context Response uses the lens of own teaching and learning context through which to explore PBL or WBL, and addresses all aspects of the assignment question Response does not demonstrate that the teaching and learning context has been taken into account through which to explore PBL or WBL. Does not address all aspects of the assignment question
Apply and adapt theoretical concepts of learning in the light of your own educational practice Evidence of a strong understanding of the relationship between theory and practice is shown through discussion of teaching and learning strategies that are clearly informed by particular learning theories including PBL of WBL. Adapted for own context and to enhance own professional practice A comprehensive overview of the implementation of a PBL or WBL approach in own teaching practice. Includes discussion of ways to adapt the approach to own context as well as to overcome barriers to successful implementation Well developed overview of the application of a PBL or WBL approach in own teaching practice. Demonstrates a broad understanding of the implementation of the approach, as well as specific examples to illustrate the approach in practice Discussion of the application of a PBL or WBL approach in own teaching practice including some specific examples Application of a PBL or WBL approach is described but not discussed in terms of own teaching practice. Specific examples are not used or are not relevant
Academic skills Seamlessly integrates existing knowledge, professional literature, and own teaching and learning context. An extensive range of relevant literature from scholarly sources has been evaluated and synthesised, substantially supporting the arguments. APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and reference list have been used accurately and consistently. Demonstrates clarity of argument through succinct and skilled writing. Evidence of wide independent reading and/or investigation. APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list have been used almost always accurately and consistently. Evidence of wider reading and some independently sourced literature. Arguments are clearly made using an appropriate academic writing style. Literature from scholarly sources has been summarised and incorporated, supporting key points. APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list are in evidence. Addresses all sections of the task using at least 8 relevant and current references. Arguments are clearly made using an appropriate academic writing style. Attempt made to adhere to APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list. Literature from sources used are not credible or relevant. Formal and informal language has been used and the work includes multiple grammatical errors. Adherence to APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list, is minimal or nonexistent.
Note: The criteria for lower grades needs to be met before being eligible for higher grades.

Requirements
NB: Choose EITHER Option (a) or Option (b)

* Please provide an overview of your context, or the context you are using as the basis for this assignment, within the first page or two of the assignment.

* I recommend that you use headings in this assignment (although it is not compulsory)