When I was creating this model though, it made me think about other models that were similar, such as the ACE Star Model:
This is a model that I have seen people use for change initiatives within organizations. It is similar in that change is essentially a learning process, so this goes hand in hand.
Another model that is near and dear to my heart is the 4mat model of design:
Again, I look at this as a process we are taking any student through when we want them to really learn and integrate a new set of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. What I like about all of these is the open flow so that is it understood that is not a closed loop but hopefully an open loop. Once you get to a certain level of understanding, you can establish a new challenge or a new discovery you want to make that builds upon the last one.
This method I could see using in a multitude of ways with a multitude of different students - the possibilities seem endless. Another aspect that I like about this model is that I can see how it could work for either groups of students or individual students, allowing more flexibility for instructors who must meet a multitude of needs.
The possible drawbacks seem to be the need to created a full scaffolding of knowledge ahead of time. Except that as I write this, I think that may occur more when you are using this method for asynchronous instruction. When I have used 4mat, I have always been training f2f which allows for participants to be engaged in setting the direction of the learning. In this way it becomes a more constructive methodology. If I wanted it to be the same in an online learning environment, I would probably use some type of small group format. In this way, it could be a great model for an action learning group; giving a group the ability to test out new methods of operating before applying them to the organization.
9 comments:
I love the graphic you created, it's very colorful!!
Also, I like how you talked about how this model is an open loop and not a closed loop. I have to agree, it seems as though students build on what they have learned previously and think about other questions related to what they are learning. They are also continually viewing the different perspectives, analyzing and evaluating each one and drawing conclusions.
I also have to say that I agree with using groups or individuals or even partners with this model. I think it would work well with all, and be beneficial to use each of those groupings in the classroom.
Barb, you bring up some interesting points. You must be a visual learner like me, who loves graphic presentations and learns by seeing. There sure seems to be many models that are very similar to the STAR. It seems they just tweak it and slap a new name on it. Gotta love theorists. I think that this model could be used in many different subject areas.
I love your visuals! This model gives students the opportunity to generate and demonstrate what they know. You made some great key points about this being a fluid and continuous model. The series of learning activities allows the students to focus on the challenge presented.
Small groups do seem like the most appropriate selection for an online environment. The STAR model has a good structure, but I am afraid of the low-level students and how they will thrive amongst others in the classroom while trying to solve problems/challenges. Teachers can take more time to address these students or create different problems for them to solve but that just seems to open another can of worms.
I enjoyed the graphic! Thanks for sharing it!
Barb...I am all about the graphics. I think that with STAR model, the ability to SEE the steps and understand how each piece/point leads to an end result not only helps in planning but learning as well. The ability to also have a means of discussion through the perspectives step can only enhance the lesson and I think this model truly works to make that happen.
I love how so many of us respond to visuals (which also ties into the MOST theory of this week). I really appreciated Paul's comment "but I am afraid of the low-level students and how they will thrive amongst others in the classroom while trying to solve problems/challenges". I think this is a great point that would need to be addressed. I can envision students feeling lost and overwhelmed but not wanting to speak up. Some how a check in process would need to be implemented to help address this.
Barb, I love seeing the different models side by side... no matter what the name or specified number of steps, problem-solving follows a natural progression that is clear in each model.
As Catherine also mentioned, I liked your term "open loop" as we think about how the learning doesn't cease when the five steps have been completed. It is simply preparing the students to continue the process in a new/more deep way.
(Julie Jones)
Barb,
I love your graphics!!!
We had the same reaction! I loved the graphic representation of the model also - and found it helped me to visualize how it could be used in an on-line learning environment.
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