scholarly journals Towards Meaningful Learning through Inquiry

2011 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-50
Author(s):  
Sivbritt Dumbrajs ◽  
Piritta Helin ◽  
Hanna Kärkkäinen ◽  
Tuula Keinonen

The purpose of this study is to develop and implement a study module including scientific inquiry based experiments in the context of the physical phenomenon of friction, and to assess the learning outcomes. The aim is to describe the levels of students’ understanding after instruction as well as to study where learning is situated on the continuum between meaningful and rote learning. This study is a qualitative case study and the participants of the study are sixth graders from a countryside school. The students studied the issue of friction by doing experiments in collaborative small-groups, following the principles of scientific inquiry. The data was collected firstly, by asking the students prior to the teaching intervention to explain what happens in a picture which shows someone slipping, and secondly, by using an open-ended questionnaire after the teaching intervention. Before instruction, students only used their prior experiences and perceptions in their explanations, whereas after it they also utilized the scientific knowledge and concepts which they had learned during the intervention. After instruction, the students’ answers reflected deeper understanding of the phenomenon, and of the five types of learners found, one type reaches the level of meaningful learning. The finding of five types of learners reflects the complexity of students’ understanding.

2021 ◽  
pp. 154134462199624
Author(s):  
Felix Okechukwu Dike ◽  
JohnBosco Chika Chukwuorji

The theory of transformative learning (TL) has been criticized secondhand for its lack of clarity in capturing and explaining in detail the processes undergone by learners who are going through TL experiences and their link to learning outcomes. Using a case study design, and carefully synthesized TL processes (TLPs) from Mezirow’s TL theory, we present—moment by moment—the TLPs linked to outcomes identified among a group of teachers who participated in a values-based workshop. Participants were followed through interviews for over 72 weeks to trace the stability of their TL outcome. TL processes identified were compared to Mezirow’s 10 processes. The article discusses ontological transformations gained and offers fresh perspective to identifying TLPs that can be linked to outcomes.


Author(s):  
Rayendra Wahyu Bachtiar ◽  
Ralph F. G. Meulenbroeks ◽  
Wouter R. van Joolingen

AbstractThis article reports on a case study that aims to help students develop mechanistic reasoning through constructing a model based stop-motion animation of a physical phenomenon. Mechanistic reasoning is a valuable thinking strategy for students in trying to make sense of scientific phenomena. Ten ninth-grade students used stop-motion software to create an animation of projectile motion. Retrospective think-aloud interviews were conducted to investigate how the construction of a stop-motion animation induced the students’ mechanistic reasoning. Mechanistic reasoning did occur while the students engaged in creating the animation, in particular chunking and sequencing. Moreover, all students eventually exhibited mechanistic reasoning including abstract concepts, e.g., not directly observable agents. Students who reached the highest level of mechanistic reasoning, i.e., chaining, demonstrated deeper conceptual understanding of content.


2016 ◽  
Vol 40 (2) ◽  
pp. 111-127 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vishal Arghode ◽  
Jia Wang

Purpose – This study aims to explore the phenomenon of training engagement from the trainers’ perspective. Specifically, two questions guided this inquiry. First, how do trainers define engagement in the training context? and What strategies do trainers use to engage trainees? Design/methodology/approach – The collective case study approach was adopted for this qualitative study. Seven cases were selected for in-depth analyses. Data were collected through individual, face-to-face interviews and analyzed using the constant comparative analysis method. Findings – Major findings suggest that engaging training practices take various forms. They include being trainee-centered, maximizing learning through entertaining and interesting instruction, accommodating different learning styles, eliciting trainee participation by creating an encouraging learning environment and connecting with trainees by building rapport early in a training session. Research limitations/implications – The small sample limits the generalizability of the findings. However, this study expands training literature by focusing on an under-explored research area, the role of engaging trainees in maximizing learning outcomes. Practical implications – For trainers, this study offered some specific strategies they can use to engage learners in the training context to achieve desired learning outcomes. In addition, the seven cases selected for this study may be used as a benchmark against which both experienced and novice trainers compared their own practices. Originality/value – This is one of very few qualitative studies with a focus on emotional aspects involved in training. The rich data from this study shed light on areas for future improvement, particularly regarding how to effectively engage trainees to maximize learning outcomes.


2017 ◽  
Vol 33 (4) ◽  
pp. 725-735 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda L. Watkins ◽  
Joan E. Dodgson ◽  
Darya Bonds McClain

Background: Breastfeeding competencies are not standardized in healthcare education for any of the health professions. A few continuing education/professional development programs have been implemented, but research regarding the efficacy of these programs is scarce. Research aim: After a 45-hour lactation course, (a) Does breastfeeding knowledge increase? (b) Do beliefs and attitudes about infant feeding improve? (c) Does perceived behavioral control over performance of evidence-based lactation support practices increase? and (d) Do intentions to carry out evidence-based lactation support practices increase? Methods: A nonexperimental pretest–posttest self-report survey design was conducted with a nonprobability sample of participants ( N = 71) in a lactation course. Theory of Planned Behavior variables were measured and a before–after course analysis was completed. Results: Significantly higher scores were found on the posttests for knowledge, beliefs about breastfeeding scale, and the perceived behavioral control scale. Participants’ self-efficacy increased after the course; their beliefs about social norms and their ability to effect change in their workplaces did not change significantly. Participants’ intention to perform actions that are consistent with the evidence-based breastfeeding supportive behaviors increased significantly. Positive beliefs about formula feeding significantly increased; this was unexpected. Conclusion: The Theory of Planned Behavior provided a useful approach for examining more meaningful learning outcomes than the traditional knowledge and/or satisfaction outcomes. This study was the first to suggest that more meaningful learning outcomes are needed to evaluate lactation programs. However, it is not enough to educate healthcare providers in evidence-based practice; the places they practice must have the infrastructure to support evidence-based practice.


2014 ◽  
Vol 13 (1a) ◽  
pp. 79-97
Author(s):  
Ann Bossers ◽  
Shanon Phelan ◽  
Elizabeth Anne Kinsella ◽  
Karen Jenkins ◽  
Karen Ferguson ◽  
...  

This case study analysis reports the reflective learning of students and preceptors involved in field experience who accessed an online, free, self-directed educational program (www.preceptor.ca). Six learning outcomes were identified which include: becoming self-aware, fostering communication, valuing relationships, developing new insights, applying new learning to practice, optimizing practice education and experiencing affirmation. Users of the online program tell a story of transformation and that preparation of both student and preceptor for field experience is enhanced. The Preceptor Education program provides an important e-learning option for academic programs and field educators/preceptors in the organisations who collaborate in the preparation of students as future professionals.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 1-20
Author(s):  
Tausif Amir Mulla

Learning outcomes The learning outcomes of this case are product innovation, the importance of consumer insights and data in marketing and the role of consumer insights in brand revival. Case overview/synopsis This case study is a fascinating look into how the shift from music compact disc (CDs) to streaming has completely changed consumer behavior. This change in attitude led many music labels down one of two paths as follows: shutting down the business or embracing new business models. The case study aims to bring out essential learning from a company, Saregama, that was on the verge of shutting down because of the losses incurred with the shift in consumer behavior from buying music CDs to streaming music for free on every smart device. This shift led most record companies to become shuttered. However, not all were as fortunate as Saregama, who threaded its way toward profitability. This case analyzes how Saregama turned from a loss-making business unit into a profit center by launching a breakthrough product backed by innovative thinking and strong consumer research. The researcher opted for secondary research based on reports from Deloitte and McKinsey & Company and other credible sources to understand the music streaming market in India. The study also includes excerpts from the interview of Vikram Mehra (MD of Saregama India Ltd.) to various media houses and customer reviews on e-commerce sites. Complexity academic level The case is relevant for learners studying for an undergraduate or graduate program and for discussions for modules such as marketing management and international marketing with a focus on product development and strategy. Applicability the case will provide the following exposure to the learners: the difference between corporate and marketing objectives; Using frameworks such as valuable, rare, inimitable, and organization and SAP-LAP to understand the rationale behind strategic decisions; An understanding of the importance of listening to consumers; Using the right marketing elements such as segmentation, targeting and positioning and marketing mix for a competitive marketing strategy. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS: 8 Marketing.


Author(s):  
Emad Elnajjar ◽  
S.-A.B. Al Omari ◽  
Farag Omar ◽  
Mohamed YE. Selim ◽  
AHI Mourad

This paper focuses on the Mechanical Engineering Program (MEP) at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) as a case study in terms of consistent accreditation by the internationally recognized Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET), where significant proportions of the study give attention towards the recent records of accreditation; granted in 2016. The paper describes the program educational objectives (PEOs), the student learning outcomes (SOs), and the curriculum, direct and indirect assessment tools of the SOs and it’s mapping to the PEO, and the level of attainment achieved is addressed through a case study example.


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