LTA Concept Map

Student Learning and Experience

Student experiences are reflective of their stage of development. The student will take place in learning and experiences that scaffold stages of development. Learning takes place based on Piaget's 4 stages of development as opposed to a student's age. Progression towards the next stage relies on the success of development and mastery of previous stages. Students will experience a focus on personality development paralleled with academic development, and will work with peers to construct knowledge. Learning will take place through interactions with resources (books, manipulatives, etc) to build knowledge relating to literacy, numeracy, social-emotional skills, and communication.

Teacher's Role

A teacher implementing the developmental theory in their classroom will design lessons to reflect their students' stage of development. These lessons will allow for the practice and mastery of skills relating to student identity to allow them to progress through different stages. Teachers should help students in their personality development at earlier ages through development of their mind and relationships. Teachers need to accommodate and be willing to base expectations on where a student is at in their development. As Mary-Lynn often says "work from where the horse is at". In accommodating for student learning, the teacher needs to recognize and adapt for certain influences that might impact a student's learning. The teacher should provide resources necessary to student learning and allow for interactions with them.

Teacher's role

Student's Role

Student's Role

The role of the student I think would be to develop their personality along with their knowledge. Interacting with the world around them and learning from their experiences will allow them to master the developmental stages associated with Piaget, Erikson, and Gesell. Students should be motivated to learn and should work with peers to problem solve and build upon each other's knowledge.

Type of Knowledge Valued

Looking at the types of knowledge that are valued under this theory, I first think of experiential learning and how life experience can develop the "schemas" in which children will construct knowledge from. Interacting with the world around us and our learning resources are common ideas between theorists within the developmental theory. Knowledge of the self is emphasized in Erikson's idea that personality development is equally as important as any form od academic development. Peer engagement is valued as students learn from each other and build knowledge together.

Field Experience

When I reflect on my FE500 experience it is interesting to see how different aged students had different tendencies and ways of thinking. In regard to resources I have seen pencils with a large diameter in early years students who don't have fully developed fine motor skills. I have also witnessed the encouragment of crayon use as pencil crayons are a bit harder to hold onto. I have seen the developmental differences in regard to the arts. I worked with some students in kindergarten who were gluing Q-tips on paper to create a skeleton. The students were given a guide to follow and orientation or size didn't matter, the main idea was if the students could simply glue the object onto paper. In a grade 6 class I observed, the students were paitning their own owls for a project with little guidance. There was an apparant difference in development between the grades and their skills and abilities at their respective stages.

Field Experience

Program of Studies

Whether it is the alphabet or algebra, concrete or abstract, the Alberta program of studies is designed to accommodate varying stages of development. This is supported in the general outcomes for math, for example. When looking at these outcomes we see kindergarten math fewer outcomes to be reached and a much less in-depth curriculum relative to something like the grade 6 curriculum. We see heavy influences on literacy and numeracy techniques in our current program of studies. Developing these techniques in interdisciplinary settings is also valued. Different forms of assessments, whether it be hands-on or standardized testing, are typically reflective of where a student is in their development.

Student Learning and Experience

I find the learning that takes place in a behavioral environment seems to be a bit more of a structured approach. This theory is based around what is visible and what can be observed. There is an emphasis on testing and other forms of summative assessments as well as periodical quizzes and worksheets as a benchmark assessment. Student learning follows a response to stimuli strategy and can be heavily influenced by role-models. Student learning may involve some type of reward system or token economy as a means of providing positive reinforcement. Students will receive immediate feedback through their learning and will learn to respond to queues. Frequent repetition with feedback is thought to be the best way to retain information. This theory tends to be more associated with standardization both in student learning as well as the learning environment.

Teacher's Role

In a behavioral theory setting, the teacher plays a role as a leader in the classroom. The teacher is acting both as a rule setter and an influencer. Classroom rule, guidelines, and expectations would be set and expected to be followed. The teacher may implement a token economy or some other type of operant conditioning within the classroom, rewarding positive behaviors and providing punishment for negative behaviors. Teachers need to understand that they are acting as a "stimuli" for students to which they may form responses and thus teachers should be cognizant of how they are approaching their students' learning. A positive relationship with a student will increase their motivation and likelihood to learn through imitation and repetition. The teacher may provide review opportunities regularly as well as quizzes as a method to determine understanding. Allowing for collaboration within the classroom can allow for the better facilitation of these practices.

Student's Role

Students should follow the rules set out to them and learn to respond to stimuli that are presented to them. Positive reinforcement something that a student seeks as an assist to developing a motivation for learning. A student can be expected to review topics frequently and be able to display knowledge on periodical quizzes, worksheets, and homework assignments along with responding to teacher guided questions and lessons. Students may be required to sit in their desks quietly and work, raising their hand if they have a question and asking for permission to get up and move. Students may be expected to be present and ready for learning at the ring of the bell and to adhere to the bells throughout the day.

Type of Knowledge Valued

Behaviorist approaches would value the idea that "behavior is the expression of knowledge" (M.Lynn. 2021). Knowledge is gained through questions (stimuli) and answers (responses). Knowledge is often depicted through testing making a behaviorist approach very structured, taking away the possibility for critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation. Understanding under this approach would be more associated with memorization and an "it is what it is" approach. A student would be considered to either possess the proper knowledge or not, and if not, then an attempt to modify behavior may be made using conditioning techniques.

Type of Knowledge Valued

Field Experience

I have witnessed several forms of behaviorist practices within schools and classrooms. Starting with the beginning of the day commencing at the ring of a bell. I have seen many routines that teachers have habituated the students to. At Rundle College I observed grade 5 students come in and be seated, pull out their agendas, and fill them out without teacher direction. This is evidently a routine that has been reinforced in the students. A very common example of behaviorism practices that I have observed is the teachers use of if/then statements as a means of positive reinforcement in student learning. I attended Le Roi Daniels Elementary School, a Traditional Learning Center (TLC), and observed a larger emphasis on behaviorist methods. Students were seated in rows of desks. A grade 3 classroom there has been the only example of a token economy that I have observed so far. The classroom decor felt very plain with no carpet space or any other learning environment apart from desks. Students at this school saluted the flag after singing Oh Canada in the mornings.

Field Experience

Program of Studies

The program of studies relates to the ideas associated with behaviorism in the sense that it promotes imitation and repetition as a means of retaining information through experiential learning. This is seen especially in literacy using strategies relating to an I do, you do, we do method. Areas of the program of studies which deal with memorization are also indicative of a behaviorist influence in curriculum design. A perfect example of this is the ongoing issue in trying to move away from rote memorization in numeracy and to build a number sense in becoming numerate individuals.

Program of Studies

Student Learning and Experience

Student learning under a holistic lens involves the student as the point of focus. A holistic lens sees the development of the mind and the body through self-directed learning, incorporating freedom and choice into learning. The student will experience critical thinking processes in development of their answers. Learning will take place in environments that allow for obtaining knowledge through hands-on activities. Play is encouraged in a holistic learning environment.with a lesser focus on independent reading and writing. Students will learn through demonstrations and will experience assessments that are geared towards observations of performance and interactions with the world around us.

Student Learning and Experience

Teacher's Role

The teacher is not the ruler of the classroom. Acting as a facilitator, the teacher will assist students in their learning without dictating their learning. The teacher will offer opportunities that allow students to critically think, interact, communicate, and play. Classroom setups will allow for the development of the body and the mind. In-desk learning should be minimized as we have learned that desks can actually harm the growth of a child. Teachers will base assessments on observable performance and growth as opposed to testing, quizzes, and worksheets.

Teacher's Role

Student's Role

The student can be expected to make some decisions in regard to their own learning path. Teachers are available if needed however, the student plays a more active role under this lens. Students should engage with peers and build relationships along with their knowledge. Application of learning is practiced and an important piece to student learning.

Student's Role

Type of Knowledge Valued

Self directed learning is strongly emphasized under the holistic learning lens. Knowledge that promotes intellectual growth, emotional growth, and social growth are all key components. (Loveless, n.d.). When building these forms of knowledge, the importance of relationship building is crucial to development and learning. Making sense of the real world is a value under the holistic lens and a way to accomplish this is to develop the whole student. Knowledge can be developed from intrinsic motivation to understand our ever-changing world.

Field Experience

Reflecting upon my experiences thus far, I would have to say that most of the holistic practices I have witnessed in the classroom have occurred in lower grades. Starting in kindergarten, I have seen centers that encourage different types of playing and gadget interaction. As the ages progressed so too did the institutionalism within the classroom. I have seen certain practices that display Montessori's 2nd plane of development which explains how children closely watch adults as they are believed to posses morals and intellect, key requirements in order to allow for self-actualization. I believe it is safe to assume that as a teacher you are always being watched and observed and this shows the importance of always setting a good example. .

Field Experience

Program of Studies

The curriculum associated with the holistic learning theory is largely based around learning by doing. Opportunities for projects and group work are parts of the program of studies that have a holistic influence. Any opportunities for land-based learning would provide a holistic influence on student learning.

Program of Studies

Student Learning and Experience

Students experience a type of learning that emphasizes relationships with everything around them. Land-based learning experiences will take place following the guidance of elders and knowledge keepers. Students will learn to acknowledge where they came from, where they are, and head to where they are going with an open mind. Knowledge will be shared among students through story telling practices. The ultimate goal for students is to create an ethical space as "ethical space is formed when two societies, with disparate world views, are poised to engage each other" (Ermine, 2007). Layers are key components to student learning under this lens in order to develop the greatest sense of understanding and reconciliation.

Student Learning and Experience

Teacher's Role

Teachers will provide an area of inclusive learning for students and provide them the required resources in their development of an ethical space. The teacher will attempt to seek out resouces which stem from indigenous sources. In regard to classroom environment, a teacher should attempt to base classroom culture around human rights, acknowledging the proper respect and honor to which humans interact with. The teacher will seek opportunities to incorporate opportunities to learn languages of studied cultures. Inclusivity will be at the forefront of the teacher's instruction

Student's Role

Students should approach learning with an open mind. Respect, honor, and dignity will be upheld and appreciated. Learning will take place through experiential environments. With a lot of work left to do in regard to truth and reconciliation, the student should seek to become involved in calls to action.

Type of Knowledge Valued

Knowledge under the Indigenous lens has value associated with storytelling, land-based learning, and other experiential learning experiences. Knowledge about different cultures is thought about and knowledge of acceptance and equality is emphasized and valued. The ability to see past ones assumptions and to approach each situation with inclusivity is considered a valuable trait under this learning lens.

Type of Knowledge Valued

Field Experience

I have noticed a little bit of the indigenous learning theory incorporated into lessons in my FE observations. One particular event was in a grade one class at Rundle College. Students were learning about what it means to be a part of a community. Students were given a chance to bring an item from home and share with the class its meaning and how it represents a community that the student belongs to.

Field Experience

Program of Studies

In reagrd to the program of studies and curriculum as a whole, I think of TQS 5 and providing stuudents with accurate histories of indigenous cultures. This includes breaking down all forms of the curriculum. Learning the languages and the practices of a culture are pieces that help the expression of that culture. Students will learn through storytelling and the incorporation of the arts into interdisciplinary subjects. A large general focus is the idea of reconcilliation and serving the 94 calls to action. Learning on the land and through application is an important piece to be included in curriculum as well.

Student Learning and Experience

A lot of student learning and student work is done autonomously. This will allow for uniqueness when it comes to student knowledge and learning. Students may learn from recorded lessons or lessons that incorporate technological platforms into presentation. Many times students will be enrolled in some form of online platform or classroom including Google Classroom, D2L, Moodle, or other platforms. These platforms allow for a communal environment where students can interact, access and hand in assignments, and keep up to date with the course overview.

Student Learning and Experience

Teacher's Role

Teachers will provide all required resources to students making them available for student access. Time may need to be made available for student questions and/or review. Assignment design will be focused around group discussions, written responses, and quizzes/tests which are administered online, videos, photo essays, and podcast.

Teacher's Role

Student's Role

Implementing different technological resources is key to a student's learning and especially so when the student plays such an active role in dictating their own learning path in a remote setting. There is a large focus on blended learning in this type of learning setting and finding a balance between online and in-person learning. The student has a bit more of an ability to dictate their progress and pace of learning in a remote environment.

Type of Knowledge Valued

I would expect the knowledge that would be valued under the remote learning lens would obviously be very much based on technological knowledge. In a classroom the teacher is present and has a better ability to assist student learning or attend to student needs. As the online learning portion of this theory poses the student in a very active role in regard to their learning, they must be able to access, problem solve, and manipulate multiple resources as they see fit for their learning.

Field Experience

I haven't seen practices associated with the remote learning theory as much in my FE observations as I have in my own experiences learning half online half in-class this year. I have certainly gained an appreciation for developing a sense of comfort with the platforms I used to access my learning resources this semester. With schools be back in class full-time, there is less evidence of the remote learning theory in the classes we observe. I think teachers should still become comfortable with this up and coming theory in the case that this style of learning becomes relied upon, kind of like if a pandemic were to happen.

Field Experience

Program of Studies

When I consider the program of studies relating to the remote learning theory, there is not a lot that specifically applies to this form of learning. What I find most evident is that much of the curricular content is remaining the same with a change in setting in which it is learned. Any technology curricula within the POS, such as CTF, would be relateable to this learning lens and assisting a student in successfully adapting to it. With this being a relatively new theory with much of its influence coming within the last couple of years, I believe we will continue to see further development and POS integration.

Program of Studies

Student Learning and Experience

Student learning will take place when a student enters a "zone of proximal development" according to Vygotsky. Knowledge is scaffolded and students become empowered to learn and step outside of their comfort zone. Students will experience self directed learning through this process in an attempt to feel happiness and confidence in their own learning. Students will have their needs understood and met and that will encourage positive behavior, understanding, and performance.

Student Learning and Experience

Teacher's Role

Teachers may be seen to play a constructivist role in their teaching methods. Focus will be on building knowledge through scaffolding techniques. Teachers will use students' prior knowledge to adapt and be proactive moving forward in learning. Recognizing a student's zone of proximal development and teaching within that zone is a key role that the teacher has. Understanding where a student sits academically and adjusting their learning based on that will be an asset within the classroom. More knowledgeable others can assist teachers in their presentation of learning material.

Teacher's Role

Student's Role

I believe that the student plays a role in finding their zone of proximal development. A student needs to be comfortable in recognizing what they are capable of doing independently while at the same time being vulnerable enough to recognize where they need supports. A student can recognize and communicate emotions they may feel towards certain learning aspects (anxiety, excitement, boredom). Seeking out new connections in their learning and motivation within will be a key asset of student involvement.

Student's Role

Type of Knowledge Valued

Knowledge in this learning lens is built upon through scaffolding. Social-emotional learning is a valued aspect of this theory. Knowledge covers a wide range with the implementation of the techniques associated with this theory. Due to the fact that learning is based more upon where the student is at with prior knowledge, development, and growth mindset. Teachers need to approach lesson planning with the RAD approach in order to develop a successful learning journey.

Field Experience

When I look back onto my FE observations, I unfortunately have not witnessed much in regard to social-emotional learning. Many of the schools I have been in have been very structured and haven't shown a ton of consideration for how the students actually is feeling in regard to their learning. The biggest influence of the motivational/affect theory that I have witnessed is in regard to split classrooms where one grade may be working on a more complex task than another grade.

Field Experience

Program of Studies

I don't find that there is too much of a connection between the POS directly and the motivational/affect learning lens. I find this theory is more about how you can adapt to and adjust the curriculum to fit the students' needs. I would say the areas of the POS that do relate to this learning lens would be those pieces that relate specifically to student emotion

Program of Studies

Motivation and Holistic Similarities

Motivation/Affect vs Holistic

When I consider the objectives of both the motivational learning theory and the holistic learning theory, I see similarities. Both theories attempt to develop both the body and the mind and take an approach to student learning that is more fluid. Both value aspects of collaboration, peer relationships, and being adaptive to different types of learning and what may work best for different students.

Behavioral and Developmental Similarities

Behavioral vs Developmental

I find the behavioral lens is different from the others in the sense that it does not take into consideration the mind of the student. Most focus is placed on observable outcomes and behaviors. A similarity I did find though was that although it doesn't necessarily take into account the mind of the learner, it does still carry with it, forms of instruction that consider where a learner may be at in their progression developmentally, and base instruction and/or assessments around that.

Holistic and Indigenous Similarities

Holistic vs Indigenous

When taking into consideration the similarities between Indigenous learning lenses and a holistic learning lens, it is evident that both theories largely focus on the child and development of the whole child. I would argue that Indigenous focuses more on actual teachings that can influence the whole child whereas holistic theories focus more on developing the child, not necessarily as a result of teaching/knowledge

Remote Learning and All Other Theories Similarities

Remote Learning vs All Theories

To me the remote learning theories are all applicable across all other theories. I think the remote learning theory is strongly based around the actual setting of the learning as opposed to varying practices to develop learning and understanding thus making it very applicable in other learning lenses. I would argue that all other learning lenses are achievable through the remote learning lens with the exception of land-based learning which obviously would be hard to incorporate. This is where Google Earth and such will become key resources.