Ep 10. Maximizing learning through explicit instruction with Zach Groshell
Jun 29, 2023
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Dr. Zach Groshell, an instructional coach and advocate for evidence-informed teaching, discusses expanding working memory, characteristics of successful explicit instruction, effective feedback, and teaching math through open-ended problems. They explore preparation for learning versus explicit instruction, the shift towards evidence-based instruction, and provide resources for further learning.
Cognitive Load Theory provides practical strategies for reducing cognitive load and enhancing learning outcomes.
Effective feedback and assessment practices are crucial for supporting students' growth and development and improving learning outcomes.
Teachers should critically evaluate the effectiveness of open-ended problems and consider incorporating explicit instruction for a balanced approach to ensure students develop a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
Deep dives
The Shift towards Evidence-Based Instruction
There is a growing shift towards evidence-based instruction in education, with a focus on using research-supported strategies and methods. This shift has been driven by a greater awareness of the importance of effective teaching practices and the need to ensure that students are receiving instruction that is based on solid evidence. One area where this shift can be seen is in the field of reading instruction, where there has been a growing recognition of the importance of phonics and explicit instruction. Additionally, there is a similar movement in math education, known as the science of math, which emphasizes the use of evidence-based practices in mathematics teaching. While these shifts will take time and face some opposition, the aim is to ensure that teachers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to provide effective instruction based on solid research.
Applying Cognitive Load Theory in the Classroom
Cognitive Load Theory is a valuable framework for understanding how students process and learn new information. Teachers can apply this theory in the classroom to optimize learning experiences for their students. Some practical strategies for reducing cognitive load include breaking down complex material into smaller, more manageable chunks, providing clear and explicit instruction, minimizing distractions, and using effective instructional scaffolding. Additionally, teachers can use short cycle assessments to gauge students' learning, provide feedback that is elaborative and action-oriented, and carefully plan for spacing of assessments to ensure that lasting learning occurs. By implementing these strategies, teachers can create a learning environment that supports students' cognitive abilities and enhances their learning outcomes.
The Importance of Effective Feedback and Assessment
Feedback and assessment play crucial roles in the learning process. Teachers should focus on providing feedback that is actionable and helps students understand how they can improve their performance. In addition to focusing on the 'what', it is important to provide elaborative feedback that includes the 'why' and 'how' of the learning process, helping students understand the underlying concepts. Teachers should also consider the timing and frequency of assessments, as well as the format of the assessments, to ensure that they accurately measure students' learning and provide valuable information for instructional refinement. By prioritizing effective feedback and assessment practices, teachers can support students' growth and development, and enhance their learning outcomes.
Exploring Open-Ended Problems and Inquiry-Based Learning
Open-ended problems and inquiry-based learning approaches have gained popularity in some schools. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and limitations of these methods. While they aim to provide individualized and student-centered learning experiences, they can also lead to confusion, anxiety, and a lack of clear direction for students. Open-ended problems might not provide the necessary support and scaffolding for students who do not have prior knowledge or effective problem-solving strategies. Furthermore, relying heavily on open-ended problems can hinder the development of foundational skills and essential knowledge. Teachers should critically evaluate the effectiveness of these approaches and consider incorporating explicit instruction and a balanced approach to ensure students receive the necessary support and guidance to develop a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
Promoting a Balanced Approach to Instruction
To optimize student learning, a balanced approach to instruction is recommended, drawing from various evidence-based strategies and methodologies. This includes incorporating explicit instruction that breaks down complex concepts, providing scaffolding to support students' learning, offering feedback that is elaborative and action-oriented, and implementing formative assessments to regularly monitor students' progress. By integrating these approaches, teachers can create a learning environment that facilitates deep understanding and promotes student engagement and success.
Join math professor, Anna Stokke, as she chats with Dr. Zach Groshell. He is an instructional coach and a passionate advocate for evidence-informed teaching. They discuss whether it’s possible to expand working memory, the characteristics of a successful explicit instruction lesson, effective approaches for delivering feedback and more. They also tackle a question sent in by a listener who asked whether teaching math through open-ended problems is effective. This episode will resonate with teachers, parents and anyone interested in education.