S3E7: Kurt Engelmann and Bryan Wickman on Direct Instruction (DI)
Feb 5, 2024
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Dr. Zach Groshell hosts Kurt Engelmann and Bryan Wickman in an episode highlighting Direct Instruction (DI). They discuss its origins, development, benefits, and its effectiveness in math instruction. The flaws of research-based programs and the revolutionary teaching approach of Zig Engelmann are also explored. Strategies for implementing DI in schools, including managing instructional groupings and involving staff members, are shared.
Direct Instruction is an explicit and systematic teaching method developed in the 1960s to address disparities in student performance.
Implementing Direct Instruction requires careful planning, assessment, and training of teachers and staff.
Direct Instruction benefits teachers by enabling clear and effective instruction and students by fostering deeper understanding through critical thinking and complex problem-solving.
Deep dives
Direct Instruction: The Origins and Approach
Direct Instruction is an instructional approach that focuses on explicit and systematic teaching methods. It started with the research and experiments conducted by Siegfried Zigg Engelman in the 1960s. Engelman, driven by a desire to address disparities in student performance, developed the method that later became known as Direct Instruction. The approach involves scripted lessons and specific instructional strategies to ensure students receive clear and unambiguous instruction. The program was field-tested and revised several times to ensure effectiveness. Direct Instruction covers various subjects, including reading, math, and language, and offers a comprehensive approach to help students achieve mastery.
Implementing Direct Instruction
Implementing Direct Instruction requires careful planning and assessment. Schools can use a school-wide analysis to determine students' skill levels and create appropriate instructional groupings. In some cases, cross-class grouping or cross-grade grouping can be effective in grouping students with similar skill levels. Training teachers and staff is essential for successful implementation. The comprehensive nature of Direct Instruction may involve various staff members, including teachers, librarians, music teachers, etc., who can receive training based on their involvement in the program. Setting clear expectations, conducting placement tests, and using in-program assessments are key components of implementing Direct Instruction.
Benefits and Surprises of Direct Instruction
Direct Instruction offers several benefits for both teachers and students. Teachers experience increased success and confidence in their teaching as the scripted lessons enable clear and effective instruction. Students benefit from the incremental and mastery-focused approach, which allows them to easily grasp concepts and skills. Direct Instruction surprises many educators with its focus on higher-order thinking and the sophistication inherent in its materials from an early age. Students engage in critical thinking, analysis, and complex problem-solving, fostering a deeper understanding of subjects.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
Implementing Direct Instruction can sometimes challenge common misconceptions and preconceived notions. One common misconception is the belief that Direct Instruction is only suitable for struggling or at-risk students. However, the approach benefits students of all skill levels, providing clear and structured instruction for mastery. Another misconception is the assumption that scripted instruction is boring or limiting for teachers. On the contrary, the scripted format enhances instructional quality and allows teachers to focus on student progress and engagement.
The Future of Direct Instruction
Looking ahead, the future of Direct Instruction involves maintaining and expanding the approach. Efforts are being made to facilitate its integration into university-level education programs, providing prospective teachers with the knowledge and training necessary to implement Direct Instruction in their classrooms. This will ensure that more educators are equipped with the skills to effectively utilize the approach, leading to broader implementation and increased student success.
Welcome back to Progressively Incorrect. My name is Dr. Zach Groshell, and for this episode, I am excited to share with you the first episode of The Direct Instruction Podcast with Kurt Engelmann and Bryan Wickman. We will hear about the origins of Direct Instruction, how it differs from lowercase "di" and explicit instruction, and … Continue reading S3E7: Kurt Engelmann and Bryan Wickman on Direct Instruction (DI)
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