I remember learning about space exploration from my 6th grade teacher (I was 11). The lessons were compelling because they were immersive. We spray painted a shuttle on the soccer field, so we could grasp the size and name the elements. He constructed a mock-up of a shuttle bay, and we could watch videos of space while “controlling” the ship. We even went to a landing! We were learning information about NASA and the physics of how shuttles launch. Clearly, my 6th grade teacher knew how to apply the concepts of experiential learning.
In college, I had the opportunity to study Shakespeare abroad in Stratford-upon-Avon. We were primarily taught by our college professors; however, actors and directors from the theatres would come lecture as well. As a literature major, I was learning to critically analyze the plays. We spent the days studying and reading scripts aloud in the pub, and then at night we’d watch the performances. In class, we’d discuss our interpretations. This learning scenario made ample use of Cognitivism and Connectivism.
When I was first beginning my career as a college instructor, I received training from a veteran teacher. She lectured on instructional strategies and classroom management skills. More importantly, she practiced what she preached, so we learned by her modeling. I can’t overstate how much it helped to have her support as a new teacher. Constructivism was at work as the mentor teacher modeled her methods and other new teachers around me encouraged and challenged me to improve.
Instructional Design Portfolio 