What is a theoretical framework of learning that integrates constructivism with outcome-based approaches and considers presage, process, and product factors?
A theoretical framework of learning that integrates constructivism with outcome-based approaches is one that views learning as a dynamic interaction between various elements, aiming to cultivate individuals capable of using their knowledge effectively.
This specific theoretical framework proposes developing learners who are not just recipients of information but are “deep” learners. These learners are capable of using their knowledge functionally by drawing upon their past experiences. This emphasis on the learner actively constructing understanding based on prior knowledge aligns strongly with the principles of constructivism. A key aspect is also the deliberate alignment of intended learning outcomes with the actual teaching and learning processes employed. This ensures that instructional strategies and activities are designed specifically to achieve desired results, moving beyond simply delivering content.
Key Components: The Presage-Process-Product Model
This framework recognizes the crucial interactions between different sets of factors involved in learning. It can be broadly understood through a Presage-Process-Product model:
- Presage Factors: These are the factors that exist before the learning process begins.
- Student Factors: Include things like the learner's prior knowledge, abilities, motivation levels, learning styles, and cultural background.
- Teacher Factors: Include the teacher's knowledge of the subject, pedagogical skills, beliefs about teaching and learning, personality, and goals.
- Process Factors: These encompass what actually happens during the learning experience.
- Learning Process: Refers to the activities the student engages in, such as studying, discussing, problem-solving, and practicing.
- Teaching Process: Involves the teacher's methods, instructional strategies, feedback provided, classroom climate, and the learning environment created.
- Interactions: The ways students interact with the content, the teacher, and their peers.
- Product Factors: These are the outcomes or results of the learning process.
- Learning Outcome: What the student has learned, including subject matter knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values.
- Quality of Learning: This framework emphasizes the development of "deep" learning outcomes, where knowledge is understood and can be applied in various contexts, as opposed to "surface" learning (memorization without understanding).
The framework highlights that these three components are not isolated but interact dynamically. Presage factors influence the Process, which in turn influences the Product. Similarly, outcomes (Product) can influence future Presage factors (e.g., a successful learning experience can increase a student's motivation).
Rooted in Constructivism and Functionality
Building on constructivism, this framework posits that learners build new knowledge upon the foundation of their existing understanding and experiences. The goal isn't just knowledge acquisition but the development of functional knowledge – knowledge that learners can actively use to solve problems, understand new situations, and continue learning. This functionality is directly linked to the concept of developing deep learners.
Practical Applications and Insights
Understanding this framework offers valuable insights for educators and curriculum designers:
- Personalized Learning: Recognizing presage factors (student background, prior knowledge) helps tailor teaching processes to meet individual needs.
- Intentional Design: Aligning outcomes with processes ensures that teaching methods and activities are purpose-driven and likely to lead to desired learning products.
- Focus on Process: Shifting focus from just content delivery to the how of learning (the process) encourages effective teaching strategies and student engagement.
- Measuring Deep Learning: Evaluating learning based on functional knowledge and application (product) encourages the use of assessment methods that go beyond simple recall.
By considering the interplay of presage, process, and product, this framework provides a comprehensive lens through which to design, implement, and evaluate learning experiences aimed at fostering deep and functional understanding.
