In this module, you will create and run a Learning Circle project
with your own learners. Simultaneously you will be working on modules that introduce you to aspects of project-based learning more generally, some of which you may be abel to implement with immediate effect.
The project involves learners working in groups and bringing their group discussions to the class discussion. The class then either participates in the Learning Circle as one group or as seperate groups.
To make it easier for you to see where the various
activities fit in, here is an overview of the project. Read this
through now so you have an idea what is required in later activities.
Project Step |
Module Activity |
Preparing for your Learning Circle project
|
Learning Circle Phases |
| Step 1 |
Activity 3 |
Brainstorm possible
questions to promote higher order thinking |
Identify possible project questions that will stimulate thinking |
| Step 2 | Activity 4
(Week 4 of the module)
|
Brainstorm activities which require the learners
to gather, process and present information |
Phase 1: Testing connectivity |
| Step 3 |
Activity 5
(Week 4 of the module) |
Draw up an assessment plan which provides
an overview of all the assessments included in the project;
check that there is formative assessment, and that self and
peer assessment are included, as well as for assessment by the
educator; use rubrics to standardise the assessment process. As you conduct each activity as part of the project,
these should be assessed at the time they are completed.
|
Phase 1: Testing connectivity
|
| Step 4 | Activity 6
(Week 5 of the module) |
Plan for a Collaborative activity by involving your class in communication with learners in another class.
|
Phase 2: Introductions |
| Step 5 |
Activity 7
(Week 6 of the module) | Think of potential problems and plan ways to overcome them |
Gather
Phase 3: Data gathering (lasts 2 weeks).
Identifying what data can be gathered from Learning Circle partners. Sending questions to them.
|
| Step 6 | Activity 8
(Week 8) | Include a Co-operative activity using groups within your class
Classes share experiences of the learning circles and possible solutions and new ideas.
|
Process:
Phase 4: Send responses - process data (lasts 3 weeks)
Send responses to partners'questions and receive responses to your questions. Analyse these. |
| |
Activity 9 and 10 |
Provide an activity which caters for multiple intelligences; try to create space for those not usually called upon
|
|
| Step 7 |
Activity 10
(Week 11) |
|
Present:
Phase 5: Publish your findings and share it with the Learning Circle.
|
| |
Activity 11
(Week 13) |
Reflection and assignment |
Phase 6: Goodbye
Self-assessment: How well did I do this activity? In what ways can I improve?
Peer-assessment: In what ways did your class contribute to the learning circle?
|