PIDP 3250 Course is a Great Example of Using Instructional Strategies

As I work away at the long list of PIDP 3250 Forum Discussion topics I am to reflect on in my blog. I am amazed to discover how many of the instructional strategies we are learning about are built into the course curriculum. Here are two I want to discuss:

Group Work:

It can be exciting and challenging to work with a group on a project. Excitement comes from the blending of different ideas and styles to create something greater than what could be achieved by one. Challenges come with the presentation of the different personalities and characteristics of each member. How do they handle aspects of control (taking and sharing), what are their work habits, do they get along with others? Who works well under pressure, who prefers to plan ahead to avoid pitfalls, who attempts to take all the credit -- who shares it. What are the differing values of each member -- and how will it all play out?

If the project is not set up to consider and manage these aspects then negative results will occur and fall on the reputation of each member. This can have a lasting impact on the co-workers going forward.

This is good example of how work is often divided among four group members:

1. Completes 90% of the work 
2. Has no idea what is going on the whole time 
3. Says is going to help...and isn't 
4. Disappears at the beginning of the project and doesn't show up until the end

Funny picture demonstrating this example: group-work.jpg

Setting the group up for success, at the on-set, will go along way to a happy ending. Some ideas to get you started are having all the group members review the syllabus, establish group ground rules, and enter into a group learning contract.

Flipped Classroom:

As me and my fellow course mates were busy participating in the Discussion Forum on 'Flipped Classrooms' it took us awhile to realize that we were actively participating in one!

The 'flip' in the 'flip' is using face-to-face time to bring together the learner all of the students went out into the world or our textbooks to find. Digging deep into the details on their our own time. The teacher there when we need support and otherwise letting us the learners find our way to the answer.

I like the comment about flipped classroom on the website www.edutopis.org..."video lectures at home and homework in the class".

Here is a link on the subject: http://www.edutopia.org/search-results?search=flipped%20classrooms

Brilliant execution I must say!

References

Powerless form of communication: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_ffqEA8X5g&feature=youtu.be

http://www.skillsyouneed.com/lead/develop-leadership-style.html

https://dynamicecology.wordpress.com/2015/02/26/the-secret-recipe-for-successful-working-group-meetings/

http://ca.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-047028191X.html Elizabeth F Barkely, Student Engagement Techniques: A Handbook for College Faculty, pp 119 to 126.