Authenticity, Simulation and Metacognitive Learning Robert Clapperton August 19th, 2015

Authentic Learning “Kinds” of Authenticity: Materials and activities aligned with the world outside the classroom Assessment aligned with instruction – open ended inquiry Topics of study aligned with what learners want to know – self-direction Methods of inquiry aligned with the essential practices of a discipline

Thick Authenticity Applicable Authenticity Assessment Authenticity Personal Authenticity Disciplinary Authenticity Thick description

Metacognitive Skills: The Goal of Authentic Learning Metacognition refers to higher order thinking which involves active control over the cognitive processes engaged in learning. Activities such as planning how to approach a given learning task, monitoring comprehension, and evaluating progress toward the completion of a task are metacognitive in nature.

Metacognition

Thick Simulation A pedagogical strategy that has the primary goal of fostering thick authenticity

Simulations Foundational: Freewriting Simulation Brand You Extended: Real Client Simulation Allstream Communications Immersive Thick Simulations: Digital Simulation CMN 279 Simulation

Simulation=Authenticity=Metacognitive Learning

References Schaffer, D. W. How Computer Games Help Children Learn. New York: Palgrave, 2007. Schaffer, D.W. "Computers and the End of Progressive Education." Digital Simulations for Improving Education: Learning through Artificial Teaching Environments. Ed. Gibson, D. Hershey: IGI Global, 2009. Schaffer, D.W., and M. Resnick. "Thick Authenticity: New Media and Authentic Learning." Journal of Interactive Learning research 10.2 (1999): 195-215.