Authors:
Grace Lawlor
and
Brendan Tangney
Affiliation:
Trinity College Dublin and The University of Dublin, Ireland
Keyword(s):
Constructivism, 21St Century Skills, Mantle of the Expert, Authentic Learning, Collaborative Learning.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Collaborative Learning
;
Computer-Supported Education
;
e-Learning
;
Game-Based and Simulation-Based Learning
;
Learning/Teaching Methodologies and Assessment
;
Social Context and Learning Environments
Abstract:
Making new meanings and relating them to existing knowledge and systems is at the heart of the constructivist approach to learning. Authentic learning builds on this by exploiting the power of information and communications technology (ICT) and is often delivered as a project based learning experience. Authentic learning aligns well with the 21st Century (21C) approach to teaching and learning which emphasises the development of key skills, such as problem solving, creativity and collaboration, along with the mastering of curriculum content. Against this backdrop this study seeks to explore a particular approach to technology mediated, authentic, project based, constructivist, 21C teaching and learning which uses the “Mantle of the Expert” pedagogy from drama education as a way of structuring an innovative learning experience. Mantle of the Expert learning explicitly uses role-play in which, within an imagined context, learners take on the role of experts within an enterprise and wor
k together to solve a problem. The “Brain Game” is a model activity that immerses learners within an authentic context, collaborating with peers to manage a project within deadlines. Technology is a central element of the intervention as it provides a means for learners to engage in role-play through email, researching information online and producing deliverables. 144 students aged 13-14 from 11 schools participated in an exploratory case study involving two one-day workshops. The findings of the study suggest that a technology mediated approach was effective in developing students’ 21C skills and that “Mantle of the Expert” is an appropriate pedagogy to use in designing authentic learning experiences.
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