PPSE Module 3 & 4 Essay Assignment

Module 3: Teaching in the 21st Century – From Theory to Practice- Essay Assignment

Consider the learning theories that were briefly outlined in the handout given to you at the end of the second contact session in January 2006.

1. Choose one or more theories that you feel best fit with your practice.
2. Try and further your understanding of the chosen theory/theories with further reading – (suggested/other). If you decide to use the Internet, please evaluate your site for authenticity.
3. Write an essay of 2500 words in which you –
   
   a. Discuss, in detail, the theory/ theories that fit best with your practice and why.
   
   b. Relate the reading on your chosen theory/theories to your practice in the classroom.
   
   c. Analyse the theory for “application-friendliness” i.e. how easy or difficult is it to apply the theory in practice and why.
   
   d. Cite one or more examples from your classroom practice of how you have used the chosen learning theory/theories and/or the brain-based approaches that were discussed in the contact session in Jan. 2006.
   
   e. Also clearly indicate the additional readings you are basing your analysis on.
4. The essay for module 3 has to be completed and sent to Tara Kini and Shuchi Grover latest by May 26, 2006. Submit your essay in a soft copy e-mailed to Shuchi and Tara and two hard copies delivered in the Red Door Room.
5. The word count of the essay may lie 10% above or below the given word limit. Essays outside of this range will not be accepted for grading.
   
   The following points should be kept in mind:

• Every paper /author that is quoted should be referenced according to the Harvard Referencing Framework that will be handed out.
• Edit the essay thoroughly for clarity of expression, correct spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Keep to the main ideas that relate to the given topic, particularly your practice in the classroom. Do not ramble. Keep your language crisp and do not throw in unnecessary adjectives or phrases.
• Substantiate your ideas or practice with reading, but avoid large scale quoting or cutting and pasting from other articles.
• Do not over-cite from other authors – it indicates lack of original thought.
• The emphasis of the essay should be on analysis of your practice with respect to particular theories of learning that appeal to you. Avoid too much description - whether it is of the content of your lessons or of a theory.
• Use Tahoma 12 font, double-spacing, numbered pages and 1-inch margins on all four sides.
  
  Grading for the written assignment
  
  A An excellent essay that will evidence thoughtful and perceptive evaluation and a critical exploration of the learning theories in the module with links to your own practice. There will be evidence of broad ranging reading, exploring opinion on theories. The essay will be focused and analytical and show independent thought, supported by reading. The presentation will be excellent and referenced correctly.
  
  B+ An interesting piece of work reflecting thoughtful analysis of the learning theories as linked to your own practice. Evidence of critical reflection of reading and references to examples of your practice. There should be a balanced appraisal of differing perspectives. Well organised, economic style, good presentation and correct referencing.
  
  B A sound essay, exploring aspects of the main learning theories in the module. Well argued and clearly expressed with evidence of appropriate reading in relation to the process of personal learning. Style and flow of the essay draws the reader’s interest. Organised and well presented with correct referencing.
  
  C Some understanding of the main learning theories of the module. Some reading and reference to practice. Mainly descriptive account of personal experiences and theories. Adequate organisation and presentation.
  
  F Poor understanding, inadequate reading and a lack of care in organisation and presentation.
  
  Support systems for the assignment:
  The blogs that will support this essay assignment are as follows:
  
  April, 2006
  Post your views on the reading for the assignment on your blog, and read other blogs and give comments.
  
  May, 2006
  Based on your choice of the learning theories for the essay, use the Sharing and Learning blog space for free format discussions with others who have chosen the same theories.
  
  A mentor could be provided, if necessary.