NCREL Module #1: Engaged Learning
Lee Ehman
Last updated: November 12, 1999
Return to Social Studies Module Overview
Title: Engaged Learning
Context: This module can be completed in one 75-minute
class period. It provides conceptual material, principally "engaged
learning," for subsequent modules and assignments such as lesson/unit
planning and curriculum standards. Addresses ISTE Basic Technology
Standard 1.3.2. Addresses INTASC Core Standards, Principle
2.K.1. Addresses NCSS Pedagogical Standard 4.
Description: This module introduces the concept of “engaged
learning” through readings and discussion, and engages students in applying
the concept by analyzing a NCREL Captured Wisdom Scenario, a video/CD-based
depiction of a social studies unit, called "Historical Fiction."
Learning Goals and Objectives:
Gain and apply understanding of the concept “engaged learning” through
discussion of readings and analysis of a video of a social studies unit.
Student Preparation Prior to Class Sessions:
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View “Historical Fiction” CD
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Review FAQ’s for “Historical Fiction”
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Study "Engaged Learning" essay (Participant's Manual, pp.
5-14.)
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Study "Learning Actions--Engaged Learning" (Participant's Manual,
pp. 85-86)
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Study "Engaged Learning Tasks" (Participant's Manual,
p 87)
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Study Means, Barbara & Olson, Kerry (1994). “The
link between technology and authentic learning.” Educational Leadership
51(7), 15-18
Major Learning Activities:
View NCREL's Captured Wisdom Scenario "Historical Fiction" video/CD
(whole class), preparing the class with the following focus questions:
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What were the teacher’s main goals for the unit?
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What were the major learning activities?
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In what ways was engaged learning accomplished?
Discuss the focus questions in groups of three students, having them note
ideas about the questions.
Share small group reports of their analysis in a whole class setting.
Discuss the similarities and differences across the groups.
Assessment:
The performance assessment for this lesson will be the small group reports
and discussion, and success will be judged based on:
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The extent to which the groups were able to identify reasonable goals and
learning activities;
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The extent to which the groups were able to identify specific ways engaged
learning was accomplished.
Resources:
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NCREL's Captured Wisdom Scenario "Historical Fiction" video/CD
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NCREL Learning With Technology: Participant's Manual,
pp. 5-14; 85-87.
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Means, Barbara & Olson, Kerry (1994). “The link between technology
and authentic learning.” Educational Leadership 51(7), 15-18
Instructor Reflections After Teaching the Module: